Reserve unit earns AFA President's Award

  • Published
  • By Maj. Jessica Martin
  • 926th Group Public Affairs
LAS VEGAS, Nev. --  Two members of the 91st Attack Squadron were recently recognized for their performance operating remotely piloted aircraft.

Maj. Mark, MQ-9 Reaper pilot, and Master Sgt. Nicholas, MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper sensor operator, received the 2013 Air Force Association's Outstanding Reserve Aircrew President's Award for their accomplishments in support of overseas contingency operations.

"I'm extremely proud of these Airmen and their tireless dedication to the mission," said Lt. Col. Joe, 91st ATKS commander.

"I'm also thankful for the significant support by the 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing of our unit and the teamwork that led to winning such a prestigious award," he said.

The aircrew directed 14 combat air patrols while orchestrating 8,400 combat support hours and 1,050 sorties during Operation Enduring Freedom.

Using advanced multiple ship tactics and dynamic targeting attacks, they contributed to the defeat of eight high value targets and repeatedly disrupted anti-coalition militia.

Additionally, they supervised 70 Regular Air Force and Reserve personnel during this time, balancing a 24/7 combat schedule against mission qualification training, while delivering 1,200 training events with zero mishaps.

"This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the 'Blue Streaks' - our Air Force's newest Remotely Piloted Aircraft squadron," said Col. James Cluff, 432nd Wing/432nd AEW commander. "For years the Creech team has been leading the way with respect to RPA Total Force Integration and this award is a positive reflection on the entire RPA enterprise. I couldn't be prouder of these amazing aviators - we are honored to have them as a part of the team."

The President's Award was established in 1962 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, recognizing an outstanding Reserve troop carrier crew. Today, it promotes competition among Air Force Reserve Command organizations to excel in efficiency and safety in their operations.

This is the first unit award for the 91st ATKS, which activated at Creech Air Force Base in April 2013.

The AFRC tenant unit is responsible for maintaining combat-ready reservists to train and equip the Combat Air Forces to conduct integrated and expeditionary combat operations, as well as conduct training operations in the MQ-1 and MQ-9 aircraft.