By Spc. Alicia Phillips
Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs
ST. PAUL, Minn. - Five members of the Minnesota Air National Guard were honored for their selection as Outstanding Airman of the Year at the state level during an awards ceremony at the Veterans Service Building in St. Paul, Minn., April 11, 2010.
Senior Airman Allison K. Morris, 133rd Airlift Wing, received OAY in the lower enlisted category. Tech. Sgt. Shawn Fitzhenry, 133rd Airlift Wing, received OAY in the non-commissioned officer category. Master Sgt. William J. Hawley, 148th Fighter Wing, received OAY in the senior NCO category; Master Sgt. Michael J. Hawkinson, 148th Fighter Wing, in the 1st Sgt. category and senior NCO category; Tech. Sgt. Reginald Saxton, 148th Fighter Wing, for Honor Guard. All awardees received the Minnesota Commendation Medal for their achievements.
The competition for OAY starts at the squadron level, the winner going on to compete in the group, wing and then state level. Participants are judged on leadership, job performance, desire for personal improvement and community involvement.
The Minnesota National Guard adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Larry Shellito, spoke at the ceremony saying, "Today is the Air Force's day. To honor the people we did today is critical."
Senior Airman Morris had the privilege of receiving her earlier wing level victory while her father, Chap. (Lt. Col.) John Morris, looked on via video teleconference from Iraq. She said of the experience, "I am honored to be here and I hope it reflects well on my squadron".