SFS members coined for ‘above and beyond’ activities

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jason Bergeron
  • 82nd Security Forces Squadron
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  It's always a good thing when the boss personally recognizes individuals for accomplishments, much like 82nd Training Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Richard Devereaux did April 9 at the 82nd Security Forces Squadron.

Although he recently congratulated the security forces team on winning the Air Force-level Best Small Security Forces Unit, he also took the time to dole out recognition, and coins, to two of its members. Staff Sgts. Andre Terrell and Scott Linthicum were singled out for their work over the past few months.

Sergeant Terrell, a supply specialist assigned to the 82nd SFS, was able to requisition state-of-the-art body armor to be utilized during deployments by squadron personnel. Deploying members said they feel a little more at ease knowing that he has given them the best equipment available to keep them safe.

That is a big accomplishment considering this equipment can already be credited with saving the life of a unit member.

Sergeant Terrell was also able to meet requirements put in place by the Air Force's "Top Cop" Brig. Gen. Mary Kay Hertog for home unit weapons firing. Individual Combat Equipment is now available to all personnel during courses of fire for qualification, providing a real-world feeling experienced while in combat operations.

His efforts aren't limited to the war on terror. Sergeant Terrell, along with Sergeant Linthicum, the squadron's unit deployment manager, did their part to fulfill the wing commander's vision of "fantastic first impressions." The sergeants were able to update 22 items for Sheppard's gates and Visitor Center.

For Sergeant Linthicum not even a surgical procedure could keep him away from the job, returning to work the next day instead of taking off the authorized 10 days. He and Sergeant Terrell ensured the days of the gate guard standing next to a loud aerospace ground heater were over by having smaller electric heaters mounted around the facilities.

In addition to their hard work, both are pursuing bachelor degrees.