AFE instructor is "Commander's Wingman of Choice" Dec. 24-28

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  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Tech. Sgt. Charles Crooks Jr. of the 361st Training Squadron was named the the 82nd TRW "Commander's Wingman of Choice" award winner for the week of Dec. 24-28.

The 82nd Training Wing "Commander's Wingman of Choice" award program is the commander's way of acknowledging Airmen for a job well done and to recognize Airmen who exemplify the spirit of the program.

Criteria for consideration include outstanding duty performance, community involvement and exemplary leadership.

Go by name: C.J.

Duty title: Computer Support Section/ Instructor, Aircrew Flight Equipment

Hometown: Phoenix, AZ

Years of service and time on Sheppard: 11 years of service and 2 years time on Sheppard AFB

Family: Wife, Marisa, and three children: Elyja, Makayla, and Emma; with a baby boy on the way

Education: B.A., Social Science, Ashford University

What inspires you: My faith, family, and fellow Airmen

Future goals: To become an officer in the United States Air Force

Greatest accomplishment: All accomplishments that I have received during my career all hold the same weight and have all had great impacts so it is too difficult to narrow it down to just one.

Hobbies, off-duty interests: Practicing my faith, spending time with family, softball, photography, and volunteer opportunities within the community.

Commander's Comments:  Charles was appointed as the Family Liaison Officer (FLO) for TSgt Christopher Smith's family after he passed away. As the FLO, he scheduled, provided transportation and accompanied Ms. Smith to all her appointments, in addtion to providing escort duty for the family during the Veteran's Day parade at which Chris was honored. Charles also ensured Sergeant Smith's vehicle was handed over to the Purple Heart car donation so Danielle did not have to deal with it.  He personally searched the crash site to locate Chris's missing keys and cell phone (although never recovered). Tech. Sgt. Crooks' superior personal dress and appearance, supportive personality and positive demeanor during a very challenging event made him the perfect selection as FLO.

Additionally, Sergeant Crooks simultaneously provided outstanding leadership as he took lead on support for all squadron computer issues during the absence of the primary tech. he aided in two ITE inventories to establish two new primary custodians, relocating MTL computers due to Bldg 776 renovations, and getting all new instructors assigned email and server access while dealing with a squadron death clearly demonstrates excellence in all he accomplishes. - Lt. Col.Barton D. Kenerson, 361st Training Squadron commander