Airman steps 'Above the Rest'

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Justin Weaver
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  A 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron Airman took their slogan, "Above the Rest," to heart by winning the 2009 Air Force Vehicle Operations Airman of the Year award recently.

Senior Airman Guadalupe Morales Jr., a 31st LRS vehicle operator, who recently moved to Holloman Air Force Base, N. M., was recognized for his outstanding work ethic and lead-by-example attitude.

"His strongest accomplishment and trait is him being capable of motivating his peers to accomplish the mission," said Tech. Sgt. David Guerrero, 31st LRS vehicle operations control center NCO in charge. "He is always seeking to better himself and those around him. This is a trait that not all Airmen have so early in their career."

That trait led Airman Morales to being selected as the lead vehicle convoy driver during a 10-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a young Airman, he guided convoys over some of the world's most dangerous roads in Iraq, earning an Army Commendation Medal for his service.

"I was shocked and overwhelmed when I heard I had won," said Airman Morales, who credits his supervisors and leadership for his award by pushing him to do his best. "It's an honor to be titled 'Airman of the year.'"

During 2009, Airman Morales was promoted through the Senior Airman Below-the-Zone program. He was the top pick for key high profile visits and, despite low manning, managed to earn six credit hours towards his Community College of the Air Force degree.

"What sets him apart from others is he never complained and did what he was told," said Tech. Sgt. Thomas Dulin, 31st LRS vehicle operations supervisor. "If he had questions, he would accomplish the mission on hand then come back and ask questions and have a possible solution to his questions. He was always there when you needed him. It did not matter what the task was. He took the challenge head on."

Airman Morales hopes to make a career out of the Air Force with an immediate goal of completing his CCAF. He is currently working as a vehicle operator and dispatcher for the 49th LRS at Holloman AFB.

Sergeant Dulin encourages other Airmen to strive to be their best, and, as Airman Morales has achieved, it's paid off for him.

"Trust your leaders and they will not fail you," Sergeant Dulin said. "The small things your leadership has you do play a part in the big picture. You just have to wait till the picture is painted. Let your supervisor help you be the best -- the brighter you shine -- the happier your supervisor is."