Airman Receives Coin for Outstanding Performance

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Michael Matkin
  • 161st Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
PHOENIX SKY HARBOR AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE --  Brig. Gen. Jose Salinas, Director, Joint Staff Arizona National Guard, visited the 161st Air Refueling Wing, to award his personal coin to an outstanding Airman singled out for his hard work during the unit's support of the 57th Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C.

Staff Sgt. Christopher Enos, 161st Force Support Squadron food specialist, was the recipient of General Salinas' coin.

The 161 FSS servicemembers supported the Presidential Inauguration by providing meals for 1,300 Soldiers and Airmen from the Pittsburg National Guard who were providing security for the inauguration parade and ceremony.

General Salinas presented the coin to Sergeant Enos during a 161 FSS commanders call.

Before presenting the coin, General Salinas spoke to the squadron and said, "We care about what you guys do. Sometimes you get lost in the background, but you consistently perform above and beyond and I wish I could give everyone in the squadron a coin."

Speaking directly to Sergeant Enos he said, "I am really proud and excited that I can give you a coin."

Adding to his comments, Senior Master Sgt. Kindra Sweet, 161 FSS superintendent said, "[Sergeant] Enos was crucial in the preparation of the meals and ensuring the troops were fed on time, and as an NCO - he set the tone for his team to follow."

She also said that during the inauguration his work ethic and dedication was recognized by not only his peers, but also the Army sergeant major in charge of the facility.

"He also took the lead role in delegating work responsibilities in the day-to-day operations, thereby ensuring the safety of his team," Sergeant Sweet said.

"It feels good to know that my hard work meant something," Sergeant Enos said. "It makes the hard times not seem so bad. Plus, it is nice to be recognized and have the general tell me good job."

He said supporting the inauguration was a great experience knowing that he was sustaining the people who were keeping the capital safe and secure, and more importantly, keeping the citizens who came to witness the inauguration safe and secure.