Security Forces Airman efforts recognized off base

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  A security forces Airman from Sheppard was recently awarded "Officer of the Year" by the Wichita Falls Optimist Club, at a banquet held in honor of those who serve in the law enforcement profession.

The Optimist Club of Wichita Falls, part of Optimist International, is a global organization that focuses on community service and youth outreach.
 
"It's always a nice feeling to be recognized for doing a good job," said Staff Sgt. Adam Smith, an 82nd Security Forces Squadron flight chief.

Smith appreciated being acknowledged by other law enforcement professionals outside the military as part of a "Respect the law" program. According to their website, on July 1965, a discussion between Past Optimist International President Carl Bowen and former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover resulted in the birth of the Respect for Law program. Through this program law enforcement agencies across the country are annually saluted for their sacrifices.

"I liked being recognized with other law enforcement agencies," Smith said. "It was an honor."

The award itself is looked at by many in the Optimist Club as a way to honor law enforcement professionals in both the civilian and military sector.

"We thank them for all the wonderful things they do for the community," said Cassie Ahearn, a membership chair for the Optimist Club of Wichita Falls. "We honor their service and dedication."

Good work ethic is one of the many qualities Smith counts as a factor in what makes him successful.
 
"We provide security for personnel and resources at every base" Smith said. "I'm doing the best I can."

As a flight chief, Smith is in charge of overseeing the training of other security forces Airmen and also tries to instill that same work ethic into what he does on the job as well.

"Being able to train younger troops is the most fulfilling part," Smith said.

For Smith, being a leader and teaching other Airmen is what helps him in his role as a supervisor.

"For the job to get done, they have to be knowledgeable," Smith said. "Leadership guides them in the right direction so that the mission can be completed."