Two Air Force reserve units earn DOD awards Published Feb. 17, 2004 By Rudi Williams American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- The top family readiness programs in the reserve component for 2003 were honored Feb. 13 during the Defense Department's annual awards ceremony in the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes.Master of ceremonies Marine Lt. Col. Ian Ferguson, of DOD's reserve affairs office, said the DOD Reserve Family Readiness Awards were established in 2000 "to recognize the top unit in each reserve component that demonstrates outstanding family readiness while maintaining superior mission readiness."Two Air Force reserve units were among this year’s winners: The Air National Guard's 111th Fighter Wing of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve's 94th Airlift Wing from Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga.Colonel Ferguson said the 111th FW prides itself on its family readiness network, which has been instrumental in supporting short-notice deployments for operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom."For example," he said, "the 111th has developed multiple communication links, which keep members and families connected via multiple means during deployments."The award was accepted by the wing commander, Col. Steven M. Sischo, and his wife, Susan, president of the family readiness group.The 94th AW’s family support center was recognized for networking with other community and military providers to ensure the best support for members and their families, Colonel Ferguson said."Emphasis on family readiness is found at all levels of leadership and the implementation of the family support checklist helps leaders accomplish their mission," he said.The 94th AW’s award was accepted by Brig. Gen. William Kane, wing commander; Ealy Ritter, family support director; and family support technicians Tech. Sgts. Sylvia Knight and Dianne Yearby.Colonel Ferguson emphasized that family readiness is a key component of mission readiness."One need only look at the last few years to recognize the critical role the reserve components play in supporting our nation. Improved family readiness programs and command emphasis have enabled Guard and Reserve families to be prepared when the service member is called to active duty."Each winning unit was presented an engraved commemorative plaque and a signed certificate of appreciation. Thomas F. Hall, assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs, presented the awards.