AFSOC Intel Airmen named AF-level award winners

Published Sept. 18, 2008
By Master Sgt. Buffy Galbraith
Air Force Special Operations Command public affairs

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Award Program named three Air Force Special Operations Command professionals as annual award winners.

An example of total force initiative success, an AFSOC intelligence officer, civilian and reservist were among the Air Force-level winners.

The strength of AFSOC intelligence is in the total force team, said Randy Jacobson, AFSOC's deputy director of intelligence.

"We're proud that we have members of the command recognized from our active duty, reserve and civilian component," said Mr. Jacobson. "This program gives us the opportunity to recognize the good works of many deserving individuals."

Outstanding active duty intelligence field grade officer of the year

The outstanding active duty intelligence field grade officer of the year is Lt. Col. Lisa Stevenson, ISR operations division.

Colonel Stevenson was lauded for her coordination and execution of MQ-1 Predator operations that resulted in a 76 percent increase in capabilities. She also ensured the seamless transition during the Predator system upgrade that boosted intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance abilities.

"When you get an officer of Colonel Stevenson's caliber as an Air Force-level award winner, you know the program truly recognizes the best of the best in our career field," said Mr. Jacobson.

Outstanding intelligence senior-level civilian of the year

The outstanding intelligence senior-level civilian of the year is Michael Lewis, ISR operations division.

Mr. Lewis was hand-picked to lead the fiscal year 2010 Program Objective Memorandum process that provided oversight and advocacy for 18 intelligence submissions totaling $626 million, and coordinated program justifications, cost-benefit analyses and briefing schedules.

"Mike's dedication and talents are invaluable to Headquarters AFSOC," said Colonel Stevenson. "His contributions ensure our Air Commandos worldwide receive the capabilities they need to fulfill our global mission."

Outstanding reserve duty intelligence senior noncommissioned officer of the year

The outstanding reserve duty intelligence senior noncommissioned officer of the year is Master Sgt. Charles King, 11th IS superintendent. Sergeant King earned this award for the second time in as many years.

"Sergeant King has been the bedrock for our ISR operations division," said Capt. Philip Curwen, ISR operations division. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and unparalleled operational experience that is well-known and relied-upon and I can't imagine starting a project without his involvement and expert council."

His award package boasts that he single-handedly established viable security and training programs that poised his unit for its first compliance inspection. He was the key to the 11th Intelligence Squadron achieving initial operations capability 20 months early.

"AFSOC has extraordinarily dedicated and talented Airmen and the men and women in AFSOC intelligence are no exception," said Mr. Jacobson. "I am humbled to see the work these people do every day, and I am proud to serve in the same organization."