5/23/2011 - LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) -- The 7th Intelligence Squadron was named the Outstanding Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Unit of the Year for 2010 as part of the annual Air Force ISR awards program and the National Military Intelligence Association Maj. Gen. Jack E. Thomas awards program.
The 7th IS selection was made by a Pentagon board held March 23 through 24.
The Air Force-level ISR annual awards recognize outstanding leadership and performance by military or civilian individuals and units who hold ISR specialties or contribute to the mission of the ISR force.
The 7th IS was lauded for its accomplishments in highly technical intelligence analysis and planning for computer network operations in support of 24th Air Force and the National Security Agency.
"They were a key element in our support to 24th Air Force and the standup of the 659th ISR Group last year," said Col. John D. Bansemer, the 70th ISR Wing commander. "To see them win this award only one year later is a testament to the skills and can-do attitude of the Airmen of the 7th IS."
The 7th IS will receive its award at Fort Meade, Md., from a senior member representing the Air Force deputy chief of staff for ISR.
Five additional AF ISR Agency Airmen were recognized by the board, which reviewed more than 300 nominations from more than 30 organizations.
Master Sgt. Jeffrey A. Larson was named the Outstanding Active Duty ISR Senior NCO of the Year.
Senior Airman Heather L. Hodges was named the Outstanding Active Duty ISR Airman of the Year.
Maj. Jeffrey R. Locke was the Outstanding Air Reserve Component ISR Field Grade Officer of the Year.
Senior Master Sgt. Samuel J. Shaw is the Outstanding Air Reserve Component ISR Senior NCO of the Year.
Senior Master Sgt. Samuel J. Shaw received the NMIA Maj. Gen. Jack E. Thomas Award. The accolade is earned by an Air Force active-duty or reserve Airman for professional excellence and exceptional dedication to duty.
The AFISRAP winners were honored May 18 at an awards luncheon in Crystal City, Va., while the General Thomas award winners were recognized May 15 at the NMIA Annual Awards Banquet in McLean, Va.
