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Test Airman receives Air Force level volunteer award

  • Published
  • By 2d Lt. Christine Saunders
  • Air Force Test Center Public Affairs

A 96th Communications Squadron Airman was named the recipient of the 2020 American Legion Spirit of Service Award . This award honors one enlisted member from each branch of the armed forces annually for their exceptional record of leadership and volunteer service.

Tech. Sgt. Select Kadir Amat is a cyber systems project manager at Eglin AFB, Florida, and was selected for this award for his outstanding volunteer efforts performed outside of duty hours in his local community.

“We were absolutely thrilled to see Amat’s selection for this prestigious Air Force award.  For those that know Kadir, it aligns perfectly with the character and work ethic we’ve seen throughout his time in the 96th CS,” said Lt. Col. Scott Weed, 96th CS commander.

For starters, Amat is an active member of the Air Force Sergeants Association's Eglin chapter, tutored 30 students as the Henderson State University STEM senior advisor and led 700 members for the Martin Luther King remembrance parade in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. 

“I feel honored that I have been selected for this award,” said Amat. “Selfless service is something that makes me feel good in my heart and this award reflects exactly that.”

Moreover, Amat volunteered a total of 84 hours to his church's kitchen, Gregg Chapel AME Church in Fort Walton Beach, Fla. He organized 26 events and served over 1,300 meals.

 “Winning this award inspires me to continue to make a positive impact on all of those that I encounter throughout my life,” said Amat.

The feeling of making a difference in a person’s life, never expecting anything in return and making connections within the local community is what motivates Amat to volunteer.

 “Kadir sets the bar for service, both in uniform and out. He’s the best example I’ve seen that every Airman is truly an ambassador,” said Weed.

Since the 2020 American Legion National Convention is cancelled due to COVID-19, Amat will receive his award at a later date.