CAMP MABRY, Texas — This weekend, Airmen from the 147th Attack Wing showcased exceptional skill, resilience, and leadership at the Texas Air National Guard Outstanding Airman of the Year (OAY) competition. Competing against top Airmen from across the state, members of the 147th Attack Wing emerged victorious in three of five categories: Airman, Non-Commissioned Officer, and Junior Officer of the Year.
The OAY competition highlights the best from Texas’ three Air National Guard wings: the 147th Attack Wing in Houston, the 136th Airlift Wing in Fort Worth, and the 149th Fighter Wing in San Antonio. It recognizes individuals who embody the Air Force’s core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
Celebrating Excellence Across All Ranks
Airmen compete in five categories at the Wing level before advancing to the state competition. This year’s 147th Attack Wing participants included:
1. Airman of the Year:
Senior Airman (SrA) April Ruiz
2. Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year:
Technical Sgt. (TSgt) David Rios
3. Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year:
Master Sgt. (MSgt) Travis Lewis
4. First Sergeant of the Year:
Master Sgt. (MSgt) Kevin Haley
5. Junior Officer of the Year:
Capt. Kevin Kron
The 147th Attack Wing claimed state-level victories in three categories: Airman, Non-Commissioned Officer, and Junior Officer of the Year.
Winners Share Their Stories
SrA April Ruiz, Airman of the Year, earned recognition for her determination, adaptability, and extraordinary commitment to the mission. Ruiz stood out among her peers by completing her 5-level qualification in record time to support a volunteer deployment with the Ohio National Guard. This expedited training, typically requiring months, was fast-tracked in just a few weeks to ensure she could deploy at short notice.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ruiz expressed humility and pride:
“I couldn’t believe it actually happened,” Ruiz said. “I’m just grateful for everyone who helped me get here. This isn’t an individual award—it’s a team effort.”
Her advice for fellow Airmen?
“Be authentically yourself. Don’t be shy to just be yourself—that’s the best thing you can do.”
TSgt David Rios, Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year, emphasized the collective accomplishments of his team during a year filled with challenges.
“We had an amazing year down in Houston,” Rios said. “We dealt with wildfires, hurricanes, and five presidential visits. I think my contributions to the Texas Air National Guard and being in the right place at the right time, ready to serve, brought me here.”
Rios played a pivotal role in coordinating the first MQ-9 mission for domestic operations in Texas, integrating efforts between the FAA, the 147th Attack Wing, and the Texas Air National Guard under the support of Governor Abbott.
Reflecting on his responsibilities, he added:
“My job is about ensuring safety and success, whether it’s overseeing airfield operations, deconflicting airspace, or responding to emergencies. It’s a lot of pieces coming together, but every challenge is part of something bigger.”
Rios also spoke about the energy of the event and the pride of winning alongside his teammates.
“This was the most adrenaline-filled award I’ve ever won because I got to win alongside my squadron partners. Hearing my name called and seeing my chiefs and commanders cheering was an unforgettable experience.”
A Community of Excellence
The OAY competition isn’t just about awards—it’s also a chance for Airmen to grow professionally and build camaraderie. Participants engaged in formal boards, shared their experiences, and connected with Airmen from other Wings across Texas.
This year’s winners will now represent Texas at the regional competition, with the potential to advance to the national OAY competition. Regardless of the outcome, the 147th Attack Wing’s success demonstrates its culture of excellence and the unwavering dedication of its Airmen.
| Date Taken: | 01.12.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 01.29.2025 08:26 |
| Story ID: | 489122 |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 16 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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