Bringing home the gold

Photo By Master Sgt. Toby Valadie | Tech Sgt. Micah Collins, 159th Fighter Wing loadmaster, observes engine startup of the C-130 prior to departure from Hattiesburg, Miss., on a media and boss lift event for the 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team at Camp Shelby, Miss., Feb. 19. The 256th is training there as part of a one-year deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Toby M. Valadie Louisiana National Guard State Public Affairs Office)  

BELLE CHASSE, LOUISIANA, UNITED STATES

02.19.2010

Courtesy Story

Louisiana National Guard

By 2nd Lt. Alex Juan

BELLE CHASSE, La. — Tech. Sgt. Micah T. Collins, a loadmaster with the 159th Fighter Wing, recently brought national recognition to the Louisiana Air National Guard.

Collins received the John L. Levitow Award, the pinnacle of achievement for enlisted personnel, at the I.G. Brown Air National Guard Training and Education Center’s Non-commissioned Officer Academy during a graduation ceremony held at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in Knoxville, Tenn., Feb. 11.

"The NCO Academy is merely recognizing what we already know -- Tech. Sgt. Collins is one of the finest NCO's to serve his country. He has been, and will continue to be, dedicated to the mission of the 159th Fighter Wing, the Louisiana Air National Guard, and the United States Air Force," said Col. Peter D. Stavros, 159th Operations Group commander.

"To me, it is a validation of my efforts; not just at the NCO Academy, but for the way I perform on a daily basis," said Collins. The John L. Levitow award is voted on by fellow classmates, teachers and the NCO Academy staff, choosing one deserving candidate.

"Tech. Sgt. Collins is a good worker who is never satisfied with just doing what is required of him," said Maj. Brian L. McCollough, 159th Operational Support Flight C-130 program manager. "This award is no surprise; Collins excels at just about everything that he does."

"Professionally, I learned techniques and gained practical experience in managing the Air Force’s most valuable assets, our Airmen," said Collins. "Personally, I learned about my limitations and strengths."

Collins advises all Airmen to attend the in-residence school in order to gain invaluable experiences and friendships. "Take advantage of the great opportunities provided to us by the Louisiana Air National Guard."

• Date Taken: 02.19.2010
• Date Posted: 03.12.2010 13:32
• Story ID: 46582
• Location: BELLE CHASSE, LOUISIANA, US