BARNES AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Massachusetts -- The 104th Fighter Wing celebrated its 46th Annual Awards Banquet, January 11, 2020, Springfield, Ma. The banquet theme was 1920’s as a homage to the past and a look to the future.
During the banquet, members celebrated achievements and reflected on the past year. Chief Master Sgt. Maryanne Walts, 104th FW command chief worked with members of the 104th FW command staff and First Sergeant’s Council to plan the event.
“The purpose of the 104th Fighter Wing Awards Banquet is to recognize members whose outstanding accomplishments contributed to the mission, improved the unit and the Air National Guard, and whose leadership and airmanship, both on and off duty, have distinguished themselves from among their peers,” said Walts. “Members are nominated at the unit level and then will compete for group and wing level as the best of the best.”
At the start of the ceremony, members of the 104th FW Honor Guard showcased the flag during the National Anthem, and set a table for prisoners of war and those missing in action. The POW/MIA table is symbolic, set as a reminder for our brothers and sisters in arms.
Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth DeVoie, 104th FW Chaplain, gave the invocation for the ceremony.
The annual ceremony then progressed to highlight the members who stood out in 2019 through their accomplishments and dedication to the mission.
“Congratulations to all of our flight, squadron and group command winners for this year, “said Colonel Peter T. Green, 104th Fighter Wing Commander. “
Your individual accomplishments and performance is a true reflection of why your units are successful. It all begins with one person making the decision to make a difference and you are definitely making an impact in your units.”