2005 Person of the Year

FAIRCHILD AFB, Wash. -- Senior Airman Travis Speakman and Airman 1st Class Joshua Hollenbeck, 92nd Operations Support Squadron air traffic controllers, complete a training session in the tower’s simulator, while Senior Master Sgt. Brian Lavoie, 92nd OSS control tower chief, points the light gun. Sergeant Lavoie was selected by the Spokane Regional Chamber of Commerce as the 2005 Person of the Year in the senior enlisted category. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman Nancy Hooks.)

Fairchild Airmen, Squadron take home regional honors

Published April 28, 2006
By Senior Airman Christie Putz
92nd ARW Public Affairs

FAIRCHILD AFB, Wash. -- -- Both a Fairchild Airman and squadron each received prestigious regional awards at a ceremony held downtown April 20.

Senior Master Sgt. Brian Lavoie, 92nd Operations Support Squadron tower chief controller, and the 92nd Aeromedical-Dental Squadron as a whole were awarded the titles of 2005 Armed Forces Persons of the Year and the recipient of the Neal R. Fosseen Base Community Relations Award, respectively.

“It is an honor to partner with the City of Spokane while working to improve our local communities,” said Col. Lyle Powell, 92nd Air Refueling Wing vice commander.

The Armed Forces Persons of the Year Award is an annual competition hosted by the Spokane Regional Chamber of Commerce.

One nominee from each organization is evaluated in several areas, including job performance, education, civic activities, leadership ability and their overall character.

“(Sergeant Lavoie) is a talented developer of leaders at every level in my squadron and across the base,” said Lt. Col. Gregory Hermsmeyer, 92nd OSS commander. “His tireless efforts to care for his family, friends, comrades and neighbors set him apart.”

In addition to earning the prestigious title, he will be honored by attending the All-Civil Military luncheon with the Spokane Mayor, Dennis Hession, and by riding in the annual Armed Forces Torchlight Parade.

“Quote from someone at the Chamber of Commerce about why they hold this competition and what the military means to them,” said unknown source, Spokane Chamber.

During the same ceremony, the recipient of the Fosseen Award, named after the former Mayor of Spokane, was also announced.

The award is given each year to the organization whose members have done the most to further community relations between Fairchild and civilian communities of the Inland Northwest.

“The Aeromedical-Dental Squadron’s heart is even bigger than the huge Neal Fosseen trophy,” said Col. Barbara Jefts, 92nd Medical Group commander. “Their service to our military and civilian community truly makes a difference every day.”