CREECH AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- U.S. Air Force Capt. James Taylor, 432d Wing/432d Air Expeditionary Wing Deputy Wing Chaplain, was awarded the 2021 Military Chaplains Association Distinguished Service Award Oct. 2021, for his dedication and service during his previous assignment at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
The award is presented every year to one chaplain from each service branch for exemplifying the highest standards of the military and the Chaplain Corps. Those eligible to receive the award are majors and senior captains. This year, Taylor was the only captain in the entire Department of Defense to earn the award.
“I was very surprised because it’s a competitive and prestigious award,” said Taylor. “Everything that we do in the Chaplain Corps should be in an effort to demonstrate care and concern for Airmen and their families.”
Taylor was submitted for this award by his previous unit, the 96th Test Wing, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, for his service as the Branch Chief for Installation Ministries.
“I was excited for him,” said Lt. Col. Laserian, 432 Wing/432 Air Expeditionary Wing chaplain. “This award is all about a chaplain who goes above and beyond the call of duty, a service leader who serves above his peers.”
After his permanent change of station to Creech Air Force Base, Laserian became Taylor’s direct supervisor and immediately noticed the impacts that he brought to the team.
“This is great to have somebody of that caliber on my staff, and also as my deputy,” said Laserian. “Taylor is also a major-select and will pin on in February of 2022.”
The year 2021 had its highlights and for Taylor, it’s been his service to others as a chaplain.
“The biggest highlight is that we can make a difference in the lives of Airmen and their families,” said Taylor.
Author's Note: This story was written before Taylor's promotion.