Creech Airman earns Tuskegee Airmen honors

LAS VEGAS, NV, UNITED STATES

08.13.2018

Story by Airman 1st Class Haley Stevens  

432nd Wing   

In September 1940, the Tuskegee Institute began training African American pilots who would go on to fly more than 15,000 sorties during World War II, destroy or damage 273 German planes, and inspire the integration of U.S. armed forces.
Today, outstanding Airmen are recognized with the Tuskegee Airmen Incorporated military awards named after previous Tuskegee Airmen who distinguished themselves despite the adversity they faced during their time in service.
One Creech member had the distinct honor of receiving the 2017 Senior Master Sgt. Margaret Frances Barbour Award and was recognized at the 2018 Military Diversity Luncheon in Las Vegas, Aug. 9, 2018.
“It’s because of his compassion, professionalism and drive that when I saw the award, I knew right away that he was the guy,” said Capt. Michael, the awardee’s previous supervisor. “He exceeds every expectation and he really taught me how to take care of people.”
Master Sgt. Demetrius, 432nd Wing inspection superintendent, shared that he enjoys contributing to the Remotely Piloted Aircraft enterprise, getting involved in the local community and mentoring future Airmen.
“When you’re doing things for people and trying to help them out, it’s not about what you can get out of it, but what they can get out of it,” Demetrius said.
Demetrius has not only performed exceptionally in his day-to-day duties but has consistently ventured outside his scope of military service.
One of Demetrius’ personal accomplishments is gathering inspirational people and talking to youth once every two months at the community juvenile detention center, he explained.
“We try to tell them our background story, level with them and let them know we see where they’ve come from,” said Demetrius. “We challenge them to find what they really want out of life and inspire them to change their surroundings.”
Though he takes time to help those in the Las Vegas community, Demetrius said he also enjoys guiding first-term Airmen in discovering their limitations or even just lending a hand to a stranger with a flat tire.
“My biggest motivation is to inspire togetherness, understanding and respect for one another,” Demetrius said.
Regardless of race, color, origin or gender, the Tuskegee Airmen Awards are presented to remarkable Airmen who have dedicated themselves to being a mentor in their local and U.S. Air Force communities.
“To our award recipients… you are carrying forward the torch of those that came before you while you are laying the trail for future military leaders,” said Clarence Johnson, Washington D.C. Department of Defense Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity Director. “You should be very proud of your accomplishments and your endeavors. Thank you for your diligence and for your professionalism.”
Those who were honored uphold the passion, determination and innovation of the Airmen who flew before them.
The Tuskegee Airmen were part of a movement that altered the military and the world’s perception of minority service members, and not only overcame adversity, but proved through their unwavering courage that prejudice has no place in the military.
Demetrius has already demonstrated the spirit of the Tuskegee Airmen in his everyday life and plans to continue his efforts in helping people recognize and overcome their challenges.

• Date Taken: 08.13.2018
• Date Posted: 08.13.2018 16:10
• Story ID: 288552
• Location: LAS VEGAS, NV, US