Air Force two-star receives career achievement award at BEYA conference

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. J.G. Buzanowski
  • Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
BALTIMORE (AFNS) --  Maj. Gen. Larry Spencer received an award Feb. 20 at the annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards conference, an annual event to recognize and honor African-Americans in technical career fields.

General Spencer, a career officer with 30 years of service in the Air Force, was honored with the Career Achievement in Government award.

Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Carrol H. "Howie" Chandler presented the award, noting the important role General Spencer has played helping the Air Force deliver the world's best air, space and cyber power for the nation.

"Tonight we recognize his many achievements in his career in the United States Air Force," General Chandler said.

General Spencer, who received his Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering technology from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, began his Air Force career as a distinguished graduate from Officer Training School in 1980. He has commanded at the squadron, group and wing level, and served as vice commander of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center.

General Spencer was the first Air Force officer to serve as assistant chief of staff in the White House Military Office. He has served on the headquarters staff at major commands and the Air Staff, and most recently served as the deputy assistant secretary for budget in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller. In that capacity, he was responsible for planning and directing the Air Force budget.

In accepting the award, General Spencer thanked his father, who instilled in him "discipline and respect," as well the Airmen with whom he works daily.

"I continue to be inspired by (the men and women in) our armed forces who put their lives on the line every day. That's why I'm Air Force and that's why I continue to serve," General Spencer said during his acceptance remarks.

General Spencer, who grew up in Washington, D.C., gives back to his community by working with local ROTC cadets and regularly participates in career days at a variety of academic institutions. In addition, he led outreach and recruiting efforts to teach minorities about opportunities in the armed forces.

"I'm honored to receive this award," General Spencer said. "Where I grew up, there weren't a lot of role models, so I learned early the value of giving back to the community."

The BEYA conference highlights the contributions of African-Americans in jobs centered on science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

"It's important for the Air Force to attract talent from across all spectrums," the general said. "Diversity isn't about numbers; it's about having a better Air Force."

General Spencer will continue serving in the government; he has been selected for promotion to lieutenant general and reassignment as director of force structure, resources and assessment on the Joint Staff.

He is expected to take over his new position and assume his new rank this summer.