Airman 1st Class Kyle Walden, Altus AFB Below-the-Zone winner!

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Leandra D. Hernandez
  • 97 Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
June 15, 2010 --  ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla.--Airman 1st Class Kyle Walden is the winner of the 97th Communications Squadron senior Airman below-the-zone promotion.

According to the Air Force Pamphlet 36-2241, Airmen 1st class may compete for early advancement to senior Airmen if they meet the minimum eligibility criteria. If promoted to senior Airman BTZ, their promotion effective date would be six months before their fully qualified date.

"My upbringing with my mom and dad, always working hard, those I surround myself with and my leadership." said Airman 1st Class Walden when asked what he credits his awards to.

According to his awards package, Airman Walden is an airfield systems technician for the 97th Communications Squadron. He restored flying operations in less than eight hours after the ice storm hit in February 2010. Airman Walden also provided support for six C-17 Globemaster III's and 63 Airmen in support of Operation Unified Response.

Among other achievements, Airman Walden aced six Federal Aviation Administration flight inspections and aided recovery for 16 in-flight emergencies. He has earned six semester hours of the completed requirements for Community College of the Air Force. Already holding a Bachelor of Arts, Airman Walden is pursuing a Masters in Health Care Administration. Airman Walden was the 97th Communications Squadron Top Cougar (97th CS Airman of the Month) three times, the 97th Mission Support Group Silver Bullet top performer award for the six squadrons in the 97 MSG and Airman of the Month two times in tech school at Keesler AFB, Miss. He also volunteered more than 250 hours to the ice storm cleanup, Habitat for Humanity, and the Altus Animal Aid, enhancing the quality of life for military members, dependants and their pets.
Airman Walden enjoys golfing, fishing, hunting, and outdoor activities. He is also a member of the all-military softball traveling team, Smashmouth/Elite where he plays short stop and outfield.
Airman Walden gives his words of wisdom to others who would like similar recognition; -- "Always be involved. Do anything you can to get involved with whatever you can."

Hailing from New Castle, Ind., where he still has family, Airman Walden graduated from New Castle Chrysler High School and Hanover College where he received his Bachelor of Science.

Airman Walden is expected to be promoted to senior Airman September 18.