128 ARW Recognized for Exceptional Performance

Courtesy Photo | Col James Locke, 128 ARW wing commander, stands with Lt Gen L. Scott Rice, Air National Guard Director, and Wisconsin state leadership after being presented the NGAUS Distinguished Flying Unit at the 2017 General Conference & Exhibition Louisville, Kentucky, Sept. 10, 2017. Established in 1959, and first awarded in 1960, these plaques recognize outstanding Air National Guard flying units. The criteria for the award changed frequently throughout the years until 1970, when the plaques were authorized for the five highest-rated Air National Guard flying units, after the Spaatz Trophy winner. Factors included in the evaluation are flying safety; aircraft operation readiness; weapons firing; unit alerts; unit manning; skill level qualifications; retention; drill attendance; operational readiness inspections; outstanding accomplishments and special missions and exercises. Also taken into consideration are any circumstances which were considered adverse to the unit mission and beyond the control of the unit. (DoD photo by Jay Way)  

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN, UNITED STATES

10.05.2017

Story by Master Sgt. Kellen Kroening 

128th Air Refueling Wing

Milwaukee – The 128th Air Refueling Wing was honored by two military associations for their outstanding service this past year.

On behalf of the men and women of the 128 ARW, Col. James Locke, wing commander, accepted the Air National Guard’s 2016 Distinguished Flying Unit Award during the National Guard Association of the United States 139th General Conference & Exhibition at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ky. Sept. 10.

“It’s such a privilege to be a part of this organization,” Locke said. “To be recognized as one of the top five performers out of 90 wings is a true honor.”

In addition, during the Air Force Association Air, Space and Cyber Conference, Locke represented the 128 ARW to receive the 2016 Outstanding Flying Unit Award Sep. 19.

“It was extraordinary to be amongst all the top Airmen of the United States Air Force to witness the 128 ARW receive the Outstanding Air National Guard Unit of the Year. For our airmen to be recognized in two fantastic venues is extraordinary,” said Locke.

The 128 ARW was recognized for their exceptionally meritorious service to the Air National Guard and the United States Air Force.

These awards come as a result of achievements which include the wings contribution to the Global War on Terrorism supporting Operation FREEDOM SENTINEL and Operation INHERENT RESOLVE, contributed 2,393 flying hours and fueled 1,028 receivers with 11,330,000 pounds of fuel.

Additionally, the air refueling squadron’s training section completed 85 aircrew training programs to provide mission ready, world-wide deployable aircrew to further the unit’s war-time mission.

Service members with the 128 ARW have participated in numerous exercises that contribute to its readiness and excellence.

“The 128 ARW is committed to maintaining its future as a leading refueling unit in the Air National Guard,” Locke said.

The 128 ARW is postured for continuing its excellence this year by supporting hurricane relief efforts in the homeland and deploying more than 150 members across the globe in support of Operation INHERENT RESOLVE, Operation FREEDOM SENTINEL and the Pacific Command Theater Support Package.

• Date Taken: 10.05.2017
• Date Posted: 10.05.2017 10:24
• Story ID: 250669
• Location: MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN, US