Federal Women Program awards

  • Published
  • By Maj. Matthew Mutti, 104th Force Support Squadron Commander
  • 104th Fighter Wing
104th Fighter Wing, Westfield, Mass. --  Diversity is by definition about differences, but differences are celebrated in the Guard because they add value to the organization. With differences bring unique perspectives, cultural understandings, and through learning about and by promoting the attributes that make us different we actually break down the barriers that these differences can create.

On April 22, 2014 the Massachusetts National Guard Federal Diversity Council sponsored an awards luncheon to celebrate the Massachusetts National Guard Female and Mentor of the year. Nominees from throughout the state were honored, to include four Airmen from the 104th Fighter Wing.

During the event the former Secretary of the Air Force, Ms. Sheila Widnall, addressed the audience and shared some of her life experiences that amplified the importance of looking at the world through a diverse filter and that challenging stereotypes is critically important to our Air Force and military. She shared that those who pioneer and break barriers serve as the greatest role models and mentors for our younger generations.

After the key note address, awards were presented to the Air National Guard / Army National Guard Women of the Year and the Air National Guard / Army National Guard Mentors of the Year. The 104th proudly nominated Master Sgt. Darcie Furr, Staff Sgt. Glendaennis Santos, and Staff Sgt. Jaqueline Comer for the Women of the Year award and Tech Sgt. Fabricio Ochoa as the mentor of the Year.

The 104th Fighter Wing was represented very well over the other nominees and Staff Sgt. Jaqueline Comer was recognized as the Massachusetts Air National Guard Women of the Year, recognizing her for her efforts in her full-time role within the Force Support Squadron and her many volunteer activities.

Gen. George Keefe concluded the event by saying how proud he was for the dedication demonstrated by those nominated for the award and that it's the people of the Massachusetts National Guard that make it one of the greatest organizations in the country.