Lakenheath historian receives AF awards for excellence

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Kellie Rizer
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Headquarters, U.S. Air Force, has awarded two major awards to a Liberty Airman for exceptional work documenting the events, changes and mission here.

Peter Law, 48th Fighter Wing historian, received the Allan S. Major Award for best history program and the Dennis F. Casey Award for excellence in periodic history.

"I was surprised when I won the USAFE awards, because there are so many talented people in the history career field," Law said. "So, winning the USAF awards was an even greater surprise."

The awards recognize historians who provided superior historical services to their unit and submitted an excellent periodic history during the past year. Working as RAF Lakenheath's historian since September 2013, Law attributes much of his success to the fast pace of the Liberty Wing.

"At a wing like this, there is always something happening and my job is to document it, so that we can preserve history and learn from it," Law said. "In everyday life, I'm always researching and looking up facts. For me, it's a lot of fun."

Last summer, smoke from the eruptions of Icelandic volcanoes caused a disruption in air traffic. Law researched documents written during previous volcanic eruptions in the region and utilized events from the past to solve present-day problems.

"Doctors keep medical records to check the health and history of each patient, and I essentially keep medical records for the wing," Law said. "What happened before? How did we deal with it?"

Law's professional expertise often blends with off-duty hobbies. A lifelong military history enthusiast, Law appreciates the historical opportunities available while living in Europe. His father was an infantryman in World War II and Law plans on taking a trip to follow his father's journey to each battle.

"Being here in Europe gives me a chance to see everything," Law said. "When you go to Normandy and look back at the beach from the water, you can imagine the men who crossed it while under fire and have a new respect for them."

In addition to documenting and preserving the current events of the wing, Law strives to educate people about the importance of looking back at the past as a foundation for a strong future.

"In 50 years, I want people to see that this was the time to be at RAF Lakenheath," Law said. "Everyone remembers their little bits of history, but I make sure that everything is preserved. I want people to look back and think, how cool!"