509ers lead the way

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stephen Linch
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
The 509th Civil Engineer Squadron snow and ice removal team was recently named the 2007 Air Force Balchen/Post Award winner.

The Air Force Balchen/Post award focuses on who has the best snow and ice removal program in the Air Force.

"We won the Air Combat Command level award three years in a row, but the icing on the cake is this year's Air Force level award," said Tech. Sgt. Wesley Coots, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron. "We were the best even with a high number of equipment operators deployed."

The team consists of about 30 members who ensure Whiteman is mission capable by clearing any paved surface such as the runway, taxi-ways and roads on base in the event of inclement weather.

The task of making sure the runway and roadways are safe is essential to Team Whiteman being able to fulfill its mission, said Brig. Gen. Garrett Harencak, 509th Bomb Wing commander.

"Winning this award just shows once again how great Team Whiteman is," he said. "I am extremely proud to be your wing commander!"