Photo By Sgt. Kelly Boyer | Spc. Amber Ekroth, flight operations specialist with Operational Support Airlift,...... read more read more
Concord, N.H. – Spc. Amber Ekroth received the first “Difference-Maker” Award from 54th Troop Command (TC) for her significant contributions within Operational Support Airlift, Detachment 18 (OSA Det.).
“Spc. Ekroth’s initiative and efforts have positively impacted AASF daily operations and set a high standard for excellence within 54th Troop Command and the New Hampshire Army National Guard,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Caleb Smith, senior enlisted advisor of 54th TC. “We are excited to recognize her efforts.”
According to Smith, the person awarded the “difference-maker” is selected at the unit, battalion, or brigade level for their positive contributions within the organization and the communities in which the Soldier lives and works.
“The community support between drill weekends is something we don’t frequently get a chance to recognize,” said Smith. Units are encouraged to submit nominations for this special recognition.”
This new award is given quarterly to a Soldier within 54th TC for their significant individual impacts.
Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Stone, the detachment sergeant of OSA Det., nominated Ekroth for her exceptional performance since joining the team in Nov. 2023.
“As a flight operations specialist, Spc. Ekroth has demonstrated skills, knowledge, and decision-making abilities that exceed the requirements of her formal Army training,” Stone said. "She played a key role in maintaining operational efficiency and safety, and thanks to her extra support, we are on track to have a record-setting year.”
Ekroth, who works as a full-time temporary technician at the Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF) in Concord, was attributed with the 25% increase within support capacity year over year.
During fiscal years 2023 and 2024, the AASF supported 124 external missions, including orientation flights, passenger movements, and static displays at public events. Each external mission requires extensive research and coordination to ensure compliance with Army regulations.
Ekroth was noted as a key contributor in preparing for this year's upcoming Aviation Resource Management Survey (ARMS) inspection. This inspection will cover a range of aviation safety and management topics. She serves as the primary contact for the operations section during this inspection.
"Spc. Ekroth allowed expanded flight operations coverage, which enhances the safe operation of aircraft," added Stone. "Her extra bandwidth ensures that each request is submitted correctly and complies with regulations.”
Ekroth handled tasks such as issuing gear, dispatching, tracking, and communicating with unit aircraft in N.H. She also managed records, coordinated missions, monitored weather, and trained new personnel while collaborating on search and rescue missions with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.
Stone added, “She has been instrumental in creating new and innovative ways of tracking flight hours, crewmember training, and flight scheduling."
Ekroth, humbled by the nomination, credits much of her success to teammates and coworkers.
"Since joining the unit, I have been given many opportunities to expand my knowledge in my MOS and as a Soldier,” said Ekroth. “I was provided all the right tools to learn quickly and be confident in my job responsibilities."
Ekroth added that one of her favorite aspects is the occasional Blackhawk ride.
“My favorite thing about my job is being around so many hardworking, helpful people,” she said. “There is a big sense of community and family amongst everyone.”
| Date Taken: | 12.05.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 12.10.2024 14:06 |
| Story ID: | 486855 |
| Location: | CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE, US |
| Web Views: | 6 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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