349th AMW receives the 2009 Airlift Tanker Association’s Lt. Gen. James E. Sherrard III Award

  • Published
  • By ATA/TQ Airlift/Tanker Quarterly
  • Fall 2009 issue
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  "The 349th Air Mobility Wing (AMW) is the recipient of the 2009 Airlift Tanker Association's Lt. Gen. James E. Sherrard III Award. The award recognizes an Air Force Reserve Command wing having the most significant impact on the success of the Mobility Air Force. A proud member of the Team Travis, the 349th AMW, is the first ever recipient of the Gen. Sherrard Award. Led by Brig. Gen.. Maryanne Miller, the 349tgh AMW set themselves apart by leading the command in effective manning, readiness, inspections deployments and operational mission support. 

The Largest associate wing in the United States Air force Reserve, the 349th AMW is the embodiment of a well oiled, organized and effective wing. Home to four flying squadrons, aeromedical evacuation, logistical readiness, EOD, mortuary affair, just to name a few, the 349th AMW excelled at all levels. Travis reservists were recognized for outstanding performance in every aspect of their mission. Whether placing first at the Fire Fighter' s "World Combat Challenge," garnering the Lew Allen Award for aircraft generation, or receiving the Command's Outstanding MPF of the Year Award, the 349th AMW excelled at every endeavor. 

The 349th AMW led the command in all eight categories considered for this award, which include ancillary training, mission readiness and operational participation. Garnering an outstanding score on their most recent inspection; the 349th AMW again demonstrates superior readiness and its ability to execute all facets of the mission. During the past year they performed a total of 218,891 days away from station; an average of over 72 days TDY per airman. AFSO-21 leading initiatives saved over 1,400 maintenance man-hours, and over $500,000 annually through improved fleet configuration and identified operational efficiencies. 

As citizen airmen, the 349th AMW personnel are actively engaged in their community. With one of two U.S. Air Force port mortuary teams, they ensured 315 of our fallen heroes were honored distinctively. This was in addition to providing honor guard support for 720 funerals and 260 ceremonies honoring our brother and sisters in arms. A role model for others the wing recently distributed over 35,000 school supplies to underprivileged children at five local schools. Furthermore, 349th airmen provided over 100 meals per week to local veterans. Their sustained positive impact to the community is evident daily and lauded by civic leaders. 

The 349th AMW is the only associate reserve wing with three major weapon systems - the KC-10, C-17 and C-5 aircraft. Over the past year they set the standard for all wings regardless of missions set. The airmen of the 349th AMW greatly deserve this recognition for their contribution to our nation's security and the sacrifices they have made. Without question, the 349th AMW exemplifies the Air Force Reserve Command's Unrivaled Wingman concept. Congratulation to all the 349th Air Mobility Wing personnel. 

The Airlift/Tanker Association Lieutenant General James E. Sherrard III Award is presented annually to the most outstanding Air Force Reserve wing or group that distinguished itself in the performance and support of the Mobility Air Force mission. The unit embodies the spirit and essence of the Citizen Airman balancing the operational demands of today's global mobility operations, maintaining a viable strategic reserve for tomorrow while embracing responsibility to their civilian employer, community and family.

"The patriot volunteer, fighting for county and his rights, makes the most reliable solder on earth." - Lt.. Gen.. Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson

Lt.. Gen.. James E. Sherrard III had a most distinguished career - from his early days as a C-130 airlift pilot to this tenure at the highest levels of Air Force Reserve leadership. General Sherrard twice served as vice commander as well as the tenth and longest-serving Chief of the Air Force Reserve and Command, Air Force Command. General Sherrard with his leadership and influence has spanned the depth and breadth of the Air Force Reserve Command, including the command of three tactical airlift wings and both air mobility-focused numbered air forces. A true champion of air mobility , among is awards are the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (3 OLC) and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with hourglass."

(Editor's Note: reprinted from the A/TQ Airlift/Tanker Quarterly, Fall 2009)