News

Reserve maintainer earns Air Mobility Command award

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jake Chappelle
  • 446 Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Sometimes, when you observe a person at work carrying a pen and clipboard, most likely they're trying to avoid work and not be bothered. But not Master Sgt. Thomas Sullins. The burly production superintendent strides through the 446th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron with gusto and purpose. If he isn't working on a task, then he is looking for one. 

Sergeant Sullins' energy and sense of purpose is why he earned the Air Mobility Command Reserve Associate Maintenance Superintendent of the Year Award for 2008. 

This award is AMC's way of recognizing Reservists who have gone above and beyond their normal scope of duties in their career field. It also recognizes the influences they have on their peers. 

"I didn't even know I had been put up for the award," said Sergeant Sullins. "My supervisor came up to me during the May UTA and said, 'Congratulations!' I'm thinking for what? I'm just doing my job." 

Senior Master Sgt. Marvin Hitt, 446th AMXS Blue Aircraft Maintenance Unit assistant superintendent, is one of those who recognized Sergeant Sullins' hard work.

"In my opinion, Tom is definitely a hard charger and a no nonsense type of guy when it comes to getting the job done," said Sergeant Hitt. "He is the prototypical maintainer. You work hard and you play hard."

Sergeant Sullins attributes his success to his supervisors.

"My supervision allows me the freedom to do my job, so I have to give them kudos," said Sergeant Sullins. "I'm thankful for them. They have enough faith in me so I can optimize and do my job. Without their confidence, I wouldn't be able to do my best." 

Sergeant Hitt appreciates him as a colleague and a friend.

"I have been a friend of Tom's since 1994," said Sergeant Hitt. "He has an outgoing personality and is definitely not afraid of speaking his mind, while maintaining a professional demeanor. He is just a great guy to work with and share stories with."

Sergeant Sullins also gives credit to working in a wing that he enjoys being in.

"It's fun," said Sergeant Sullins. "I like the pace and the challenge of working in a wing like the 446th." 

Sergeant Sullins' award was presented to him during the June UTA at the 446th AMXS Commander's Call.