Bases earn awards for energy, environmental management Published July 22, 2004 WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- Several Air Force bases were among the winners of top awards for leadership in federal energy and environmental management during a presidential ceremony held July 15 at the State Department headquarters here.The Leadership in Federal Energy Management Awards honor teams of federal employees who exemplify leadership in efficient energy management. The Air Force Renewable Energy Team was recognized for the use of renewable energy sources such as wind farms. Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., for instance, will save $46 million over a five-year period through renewable energy sources. In addition, Dyess AFB, Texas, became the largest retail wind power purchaser in the United States when it converted entirely to wind energy.Other winners were Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla.; Robins AFB, Ga.; Tinker AFB, Okla.; and Vandenberg AFB, Calif. All received awards for reducing their hazardous materials and for their recycling efforts.“The recognition at the presidential level of environmental efforts at our individual bases supports the concept of continuous improvement that exists throughout the Department of Defense, from the (leaders) to the individual Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine on the ground,” said Alex Beehler, assistant deputy undersecretary of defense for environment, safety and occupational health. “We have the best trained military force in the world, while continuing to be world leaders in energy conservation, environmental management and conservation of our natural resources.”