Outstanding unit; home of life saving Airman

BLUE ASH, Ohio -- In a duel presentation, an Airman and his unit were recognized for being outstanding at the Blue Ash Air National Guard Station, Dec. 6.

Master Sgt. Jeffery Scott, 123rd Air Control Squadron, received the Airman's Medal for his heroic actions that saved the lives of three people. 

While on a camping trip in January 2013 in North Carolina, Scott responded to the cries of three fishermen whose boat capsized in the middle of the night by entering the fast moving and frigid waters and aiding them to the shores

"His actions prevented a true tragedy," said Lt. Col Steven Breitfelder, 123rd Air Control Squadron commander. "People like Jeff make our military the best in the world."

The entire ordeal lasted over an hour and a half, in which time Scott risked his own personal safety by entering the rapidly moving and elevated waters that were below 20 degrees.

Scott attributed his actions in part to the core values he learned as an Airman.

"I think that the core values played a critical role because of service before self," said Scott. "I didn't think about it, I just jumped in to help them."

An ideology that Maj.Gen. Mark Bartman, Ohio Air National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, marked as a quality of true Airmen.

"Most people run from danger, but we as Airmen run towards it," said Bartman.

Additionally, the 123rd Air Control Squadron received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.

The award is presented to numbered units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units.

"This is the 10th Outstanding Unit Award for the 123rd," said Breitfelder." Each award represents a two year span, and the trophy case we house our awards in only has one year missing for this award since 1989."

The unit achieved this success by successfully accomplishing all assigned missions, playing a key role in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Noble Eagle, participating in multiple joint exercises and volunteering in the local community.

"As a member of the ANG, I am proud of the 123rd and what they do for America," said Bartman.