Student receives unlikely award

  • Published
  • By Gwenn McElwee
  • 97th Training Squadron
It's not everyday pipeline technical school students earn Air Force Achievement Medals, but Airman 1st Class Adam K. Harrison recently earned his first Air Force Achievement Medal after distinguishing himself as an outstanding C-5 loadmaster student while at the 97th Training Squadron. According to 97th TRS Commander Lt. Col. Cathy Bartholomew it is highly unusual for an Air Force Achievement Medal to be given to a pipeline student. Normally a student will earn their first award after serving at their first duty station.

So what exactly distinguishes Airman Harrison from the norm? "He did a lot of good things, not just volunteering, but in many different areas," said Captain William Parker, 97th Military Training Flight commander. "He moved up the Airman Leader ranks in an incredibly short time."

All airman leaders are graded by their performance and dedication to their fellow airmen. Airman Harrison's work ethic and determination for excellence ensured led to many Air Force accomplishments. Airman Harrison orchestrated the training and preparation needed for five drill competition teams to display their talents for of the 97th Air Mobility Wing commander. In addition to this, his dedication to his duties as the Senior Airman Leader prevented three potential DUIs, two attempted suicides ensuring the safety of 165 Non-prior Service Airmen.

"It felt great to receive recognition for the hard work and sacrifice," said Airman Harrison. When asked what he meant by sacrifice Airman Harrison said, "My personal time." The Airman Leaders give much of their personal time after hours to better prepare their fellow students.

Airman 1st Class Daquon Bibbs remembers Airman Harrison taking the Senior Airman Leader position. "He was able to handle the pressure and responsibility of an Airman Leader in a short period of time; it goes to show his character," said Airman Bibbs.