Deployed McConnell Reservist honored as Red Cross Hero

by 1st Lt. Zach Anderson
931st Air Refueling Group Public Affairs

12/12/2012 - MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- A member of the Air Force Reserve 931st Air Refueling Group was honored at the annual American Red Cross Midway-Kansas Chapter Heroes Breakfast in Wichita Dec.12.

1st Lt. Craig Van Praag, a traditional Reservists who serves as an aircraft maintenance officer assigned to the 931st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was named this year's Red Cross Military Hero.  On Oct. 3, Van Praag utilized self-aid buddy care training to save another Airman who was choking at the BX food court.

In his civilian role, Van Praag works as the manpower chief for the 22nd Force Support Squadron.

Van Praag is currently deployed, so his wife, Tech. Sgt. Carrie Van Praag, 931st Logistics Supply Manager, accepted the award on his behalf.

"It's a great honor to accept this award on behalf of Craig while he is deployed," said Tech. Sgt. Van Praag.

"It's truly a tremendous honor," said Lt. Van Praag in an e-mail statement.  "I don't feel like a hero or like I did anything special.  There are many more military members from the Wichita area that are much more deserving of being called a hero.  At the same time, I appreciate the recognition."

This marks the second year in a row a member of the 931st Air Refueling Group has been recognized as a Red Cross hero.  Last year, Tech. Sgt. Joel Janssen was awarded the Red Cross Good Samaritan Hero award.