Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, NC -- The 916th Air Refueling Wing started 2007 off right.
The first week of January the unit was notified that it had been awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for 2006. This achievement is awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to units which have distinguished themselves by exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets them apart from similar units.
"The work everyone does here resulted in this award, said Col. Paul Sykes, 916th ARW commander. "It's a great accomplishment and the 916th deserves it."
The award covered a two-year span from October 2004 to October 2006. In that time the unit had major missions to Paraguay, Turkey, Chile and Egypt, while at the same time continuing to support Operation Noble Eagle flying patrols over key cities.
But flying operations were not the only ones recognized by the panel. The unit also highlighted its achievements with security forces, training, civil engineering, medical and public affairs.
More than 900 reservists learned news of the award when they came in for their drill weekend on Jan. 6.
"Members volunteering play a big part in getting this award. People are always stepping up to the plate, volunteering and getting the job done right," said Master Sgt. Jill Weissflog, 916th Military Personnel Flight.
This is the seventh time the 916th has received this honor.