F-35 instructor is commander's "Wingman of Choice"

  • Published
  • By 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Master Sgt. Johnathan Meyer, an F-35 Lightning II instructor at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., from Harltand, Wis., who has spent more than 14 years in the Air Force, has been selected as the commander's "Wingman of Choice."

He is inspired by the accomplishment of others and reading. His hobbies include scuba diving, boating and snorkeling. He counts his greatest accomplishment as getting to have different types of people work together to complete the Air Force mission.

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 Air Force core values. Criteria for consideration include outstanding duty performance, community involvement and exemplary leadership.



Family: Ashley, Jayden and Evalynn

Education (Include name of school and degree in what area): Community College of the Air Force Aircraft Armament System Technology and Instructor in Military Technology (CCAF)

Future goals: Continuous self-improvement, become a Chief Master Sergeant and get a master's in business administration

Reason for submission:

Master Sgt. Meyer is an exceptional noncommissioned officer and the "go-to" person in this organization. His response is usually "got it" and he does! He is the lead instructor for the F-35 Lightning II armament course, where he was the first service member to qualify and instruct a class on our service's newest joint strike fighter.

Master Sgt. Meyer was selected as the squadron's additional duty first sergeant. He was key to melding multiple services (Marine, Navy and Air Force) in a combined mission while maintaining high morale across the squadron. As the squadron's self-inspection program manager, he coordinated with squadron and detachment personnel at two geographically separated units to ensure standards were met and maintained. He's been coined on several occasions during visits for his presentation skills and professionalism.

Commander's name and comments: Lt. Col. Richard A. Paradise, United States Marine Corps.

Master Sgt. Meyer was recently recognized and coined by a fellow squadron commander for his quick action while assisting a fellow Airman who was in a vehicle accident. He immediately contacted the member's leadership and assisted family members directly involved in the accident. Master Sgt. Meyer epitomizes the strength and character of an Air Force wingman.