Airman of the Year Up to the Challenge

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ted Daigle
  • 307th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
It's late in the day in a crowded conference room during the March unit training assembly for the 307th Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, La. Tired Airmen of the unit advisory committee rub their eyes and lean back in their chairs, trying to sort through a myriad of ideas, programs and issues facing the wing. Exhausted from the efforts of the day, the committee is quiet as Senior Airman Chad Miller, an Aerospace Ground Equipment mechanic with the 307th Maintenance Squadron, stands to give a presentation on getting workout equipment for one of the running trails on base. Undaunted, Miller begins to give his pitch on the equipment. Within a few minutes of his presentation, he has the group re- energized, asking questions, and offering ideas to improve the project.

Taking on such challenges is nothing new for Miller. This drive, coupled with a helpful attitude, is what earned him the 307th Bomb Wing Airman of the year Award for 2012, according to his immediate supervisor, Tech. Sgt. Christopher Marien, 307th Maintenance Squadron Aerospace Ground Equipment mechanic.

"He finds a way to make things happen," said Marien. "He always volunteers without looking for anything in return."

Senior Master Sgt. David Wood, 307th Aerospace Ground Equipment Flight supervisor, believes Miller possesses a sense of humility, as well. Wood said Miller often seeks advice from his supervisors and other non-commissioned officers in the 307th AGE flight. According to Wood, Miller has also established a strong rapport with his active duty counterparts by looking for opportunities to help them and learn from them.

Miller's natural drive keeps him busy in his academic pursuits, as well. He is enrolled in both the Community College of the Air Force and Tyler Community College in Tyler, TX. After graduating from Tyler Community College, Miller said he plans to attend the University of Texas at Tyler.

In spite of the challenge of juggling the demands of school and the military, Miller made the most his nomination. He took on the extra studies required to prepare for the board and was selected Airman of the Quarter. From there, Miller's natural drive and desire for self-improvement took over for the Airman of the Year board.

"I just decided to take the bull by the horns and win the whole thing," he said.

As for the future, it is no surprise Miller has a plan that offers more challenges and even greater opportunity. He intends to try and become a non-commissioned officer while in school and apply for his commission after graduation. None of Miller's planning surprises Marien.

"He always has a game plan, always looking for opportunities to get better," said Marien.

If Miller's prior efforts are any indication of the future, his plans will become a reality and the Air Force Reserve will be stronger for his efforts.