Air National Guard identifies, honors TEC civilian

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith
  • I.G. Brown Training and Education Center
MCGHEE TYSON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE --  It did come as a surprise to Mr. Dustin C. Russell, an instructional systems specialist here in the Media and Engagement Division, of his selection as an outstanding civilian for the Air National Guard Readiness Center.

Shortly after arriving for an unspecified commander's meeting June 8 in Patriot Hall, the I.G. Brown Training and Education Center group informed Russell that they had gathered to recognize him.

"So, are you wondering why we are assembled here today?" asked Col. Jessica Meyeraan, TEC's commander, of Russell. She highlighted Russell as someone to emulate in his positive attitude, teamwork and talents.

"Thank you for all that you do," said Meyeraan.

The ensuing strong applause and the air directorate's Category Two Civilian of the Year crystal cup handed to him seemed the icing on the cake, and especially after Russell's selection in January as TEC's top civilian for 2014, which is an accomplishment in itself.

"I just want to say, thank you," said Russell to the group. "Thank you for putting me in for this. Without all of the people that I work with, everyone standing here, I could not have done any of this. It's all a team effort."

Officials said Russell distinguished himself through his close work with subject matter experts for developing the Air National Guard's ancillary training revision. His work as an instructor for the TEC's Instructor Certification Program also helped certify many new instructors. His responsibility as a cost center manager was also cited.

The Air National Guard Readiness Center includes more than 700 military and civilian personnel and is located on Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. It is also responsible for four detachments, to include the TEC, and other operating locations.