Master Sergeant Aaron Taylor, Altus AFB award winner!

  • Published
  • By A1C Myles Stepp
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Master Sergeant Aaron Taylor, 97th Operations Support Squadron Radar Approach Control (RAPCON) Deputy Chief Controller, is the recipient of the Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter Award for the first quarter of 2010.

When asked what Master Sgt Taylor credits his award to he said, "First off, it's not my award as much as it is "our award." A leader can only get so far without good people. I believe my people are the best air traffic controllers, trainers and trainees in the world. They are the reason for my success which ultimately led to this award."

Master Sgt. Taylor's current duty titles are RAPCON Deputy Chief Controller, RAPCON Facility Manager, RAPCON Watch Supervisor, Air Traffic Controller, Air Traffic Trainer/Task Certifier and Assistant Chief Standardization and Evaluation.

Master Sgt. Taylor revamped the Radar Approach Control's Physical Training program which provided 34 controllers with 74 hours of intensive workouts. The squadron is now 100 percent test ready. Taylor directed the recovery of ten emergency aircrafts, which safeguarded 70 aircrew members. He cleared direct routes for 14 Lifeguard helicopters to Jackson County Memorial Hospital which reduced critical patient's flight times by three hours. Also, Master Sgt. Taylor opened his home to 23 ice storm evacuees, and provided food to 36 active duty members, civilians, and dependants.

Master Sgt. Taylor gives his words of wisdom to others who would like similar recognition, "One, excel at your job! Two, look for opportunities to improve yourself. For example: additional job qualifications, off-duty education and professional military education. Three, be involved on base and in your community. In doing so, look for opportunities to shine as a leader. Bottom line: be a well rounded leader on your base and in your community. Four, prepare for the award board, if applicable! Don't just wing it."

Taylor is from Tacoma, WA. Together he and his wife, Suzette, have two children; Bailey, 11, and Jera, 8.

Master Sgt. Taylor, and the other winners, are set to compete in the 97th Air Mobility Wing 2010 Annual Awards.