Goodfellow members are 2006 2nd AF Outstanding Airmen

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Luis Loza Gutierrez
  • Public Affairs
A pair of Goodfellow members were selected as two of the twelve Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2006 by 2nd Air Force.

Senior Airman Shaun O'Dell, 17th Security Forces armory supervisor, was selected for the category of Airman.

"Shaun possesses all of the qualities most desired in an Airman," Maj. Kenneth O'Neil, 17th SFS commander commented about Airman O'Dell.

"Shaun never settles for mediocrity... he continually tries to improve himself, his working environment, and the Airmen around him. He always gives whatever he's doing 110 percent effort, whether that's his job in the armory, morning physical training, helping one of the various charitable organizations off base, or preparing for a test. He is the recruiting-poster-perfect image of an Airman living out our Air Force core values."

Maj. O'Neil's sentiments were also shared by members of Airman O'Dell's family. One of the happy relatives was Airman O'Dell's father Paul, a disabled U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, who he takes care of.

"He was told immediately when I got home that day and he gave me a loud, wheezing 'ooh-rah!' " Airman O'Dell said about his father's reaction. "My wife (Anisa), the other Senior Airman O'Dell, was very happy as well, but I did not feel a need to celebrate because I have been accomplishing what should be expected of all Airmen." Airmen O'Dell modestly added. Airman O'Dell shared one his own personal feelings about his recent selection.

"I felt proud and honored to be selected for the award. Since I have deployed to a hostile area, my heart dedicates any recognition to those deployed in harms way. And I hope that one day they too will receive the recognition they deserve."

Michael Noret, 17th Civil Engineer Squadron deputy base civil engineer, was selected as the recipient of the 2nd Air Force Outstanding Airman of the Year for the senior-level civilian category.

"I am thrilled that Mike was recognized for his hard work -- he goes over and above every day to make Goodfellow better," Maj. John Baker, 17 CES commander, commented.

"Mr. Noret is insightful about large complex problems--like how to maintain stellar facility and emergency service support to the Installation despite severe funding hardships. His ability to build consensus ensures maximum participation and buy-in as we move forward to solve problems. His communications skills are second to none," he said.

"I expect nothing but the best from Mike -- someday I'm sure he'll be one on the senior civilians in the CE Career Field -- and the Air Force will be well served by having him there," concluded Maj. Baker.

Mr. Noret shared his own personal feelings about his recent selection.

"I was surprised, amazed, and humbled when notified that I was a 2nd Air Force annual award winner. This isn't about me, but is a reflection on the great folks I work with day in and day out; especially the members of the civil engineer squadron - you can't find a better bunch of people... They are the best civil engineer squadron in the Air Force," Mr. Noret said. "I am truly blessed to work with so many great folks who are all focused on the success of team Goodfellow in support of the war fighter," he added.

"I had a squadron commander, Lt. Col. (sel) Baker, who allowed me to work issues with few constraints; a group commander, Col. Stephen Czerwinski, who cleared the path to progress; a (former) wing commander, Col. Scott Bethel, who encouraged change and embraced challenges; and thanks to my neighbor, retired Col. Charlie Powell, I've been introduced to key decision makers and exposed to possibilities that created a community team with city and state leaders that enthusiastically supported Goodfellow's vision and future growth," Mr. Noret concluded.