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Springfield Air National Guard Base units receive the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award

  • Published
  • By Capt. Michael Gibson
  • 178th Wing Public Affairs
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio --  The 178th Wing and the 251st Cyberspace Engineering Installation Group, as well as their subordinate units received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for their accomplishments spanning a two year period.

The AFOUA is awarded by the secretary of the Air Force to units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units.

"Receiving this award is a true testament to the caliber of Airmen we have at the 178th and 251st," said Col. Bryan Davis, 178th Wing commander. "It is amazing how our wing was able to quickly transition from our old mission of flying fighter aircraft to being experts in our new missions."

The 178th was recognized for providing outstanding support to the nation's defense from Oct. 1, 2012 through Sept. 30, 2014 through remotely operating the MQ-1B Predator overseas and providing key intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support.

During this period, the 178th deployed more than 400 Airmen to support various operations to include Operation Enduring Freedom.

The 251st CEIG and their subordinate units were recognized for their accomplishments from Aug. 1, 2012 through July 31, 2014. During this time, they mobilized 565 servicemen to 18 different locations where they enabled $57.8 million in upgrades at bases in austere locations.

The 251st also made more than $23 million in communications and engineering enhancements at Air Force bases across the Unites States.

"The performance of all our Airmen has been outstanding. Each one of them played an important role in this," said Davis. "Their work has saved lives, provided vital intelligence, and supported our service members overseas."

This award also recognized the 178th and 251st for their community involvement which included participation in child safety and anti-drug programs, homeless veteran support, and participation in parades and community events.

This is the third time the 178th and twelfth time the 251st received this award. All Airmen assigned to both units during the award periods are now authorized to wear the AFOUA ribbon.