FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - The Order of Saint Michael recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to the promotion of Army aviation in ways that stand out in the eyes of the recipient’s seniors, subordinates and peers.
Chief Warrant Officer 5 Charles “Chip” Wallace, a 16th Combat Aviation Brigade aviator with more than 20 years of service, was presented the Order of Saint Michael silver award at a ceremony March 28, on Fort Wainwright.
It’s rare for anyone to receive the silver medal while still on active-duty, according to Col. Robert Dickerson, 16th CAB commander. The medal is more commonly awarded during retirements.
“We don’t just hand these out because you came into Fort Wainwright and performed as a pilot for three years,” Dickerson said. “We recognize significant contributions to Army aviation service.”
The 16th CAB-AK Deputy Commander, Lt. Col. Carl Casey, presented Wallace with the award and citation as Chief Warrant Officer 5, John Roberts, Executive Officer, closed the ceremony with these words:
“It is written that Saint Michael is the embodiment of courage, justice and gallantry. So too, the aforementioned individual embodies these qualities and represents excellence in Army aviation,” Roberts said, reading from the citation. “Therefore, the president of the Army Aviation Association of America, with concurrence of the Chief of Army Aviation, acknowledges that this patriot is due special honor and respect for now and posterity.”