62nd Port Dawg makes 12 OAY list

by Airman 1st Class Jacob Jimenez
62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

7/16/2013 - JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. -- An Airman from the 62nd Aerial Port Squadron here was recently named one of the Air Force's 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year.

Senior Master Sgt. Ernesto Rendon, 62nd APS air freight superintendent, will travel to Washington later this year be recognized by Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A Welsh III and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody at a reception hosted by the Air Force Association.

"I was awe struck when I picked up the phone and was congratulated by General [Paul] Selva [commander of Air Mobility Command]," said Rendon.

As one of the 12 OAY, Rendon will take his mentorship and leadership experience to the Air Force Enlisted Council where he will serve for one year. As part of the council he will report directly to the CMSAF and weigh in on matters pertaining to the enlisted force. He will be responsible for making recommendations on Air Force policy and quality of life issues on behalf of all enlisted Airmen.

Rendon says he is looking forward to taking the trip to Washington with his family, whose support he credits for much of his success to date. He also gives credit for his accomplishments to the Airmen of the 62nd APS and the 62nd Maintenance Squadron.

"I am thankful to represent the outstanding Airmen of the port, maintenance and Team McChord," said Rendon. "As a senior NCO, I don't achieve anything on my own. This accomplishment is a result of working with an exceptional team."

Second Lt. Michael Weber, 62nd APS air freight flight commander and Rendon's supervisor, said that he is confident Rendon is not only deserving of this award, but that he will also do great things as part of the Air Force Enlisted Council.

"He brings out the best in everyone he works with," said Weber.

In the time he has been assigned to McChord, Rendon also served as a first sergeant, overseeing and mentoring more than 400 Airmen, and he served as the Top 3 president, leading more than 270 SNCOs.

"I plan to continue to help Airmen achieve their goals and make places better than when I found them," said Rendon. "I look forward to the opportunity to make a positive impact on Airmen's careers and lives in the Air Force."

As one of the 12 OAY, Rendon will be awarded the Outstanding Airman of the Year ribbon with the bronze service star device and the Outstanding Airman of the Year badge. But he said that awards and recognition are not why he strives for success.

"The work is its own reward," said Rendon. "Being acknowledged for it is just icing on the cake."