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Wright-Patt sergeant recognized as best of the best by AFA

  • Published
  • By Chandra Lloyd
  • 88th Air Base Wing
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  "There is a biblical quote that says, 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,' and Master Sgt. Alan Braden does more than doing those things," said Dr. Sara Black, 88th Air Base Wing Force Development Flight chief and Braden's supervisor. So it is no wonder he was awarded the 12 United States Air Force Outstanding Airmen of the Year award.

"I am beaming with pride to know that it is in our air base wing, an Airman whose outstanding service to his country and community has been nationally recognized," said Col. Amanda Gladney, 88 ABW commander. "Sergeant Braden is more than outstanding in everything he does and we could not be more proud to call him one of our own."

The 12 Outstanding Airmen award recognizes the very best of enlisted Airmen from active duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve. The recipients are selected based on their superior leadership, job performance, community involvement, and personal achievements.

Braden has been stationed at WPAFB for three years where he worked at the base medical center as an aerospace medical service craftsman or enlisted nurse, before deploying to Kuwait. After deployment he worked at the base medical center emergency room before being assigned as a career advisor. Based on his career field, it's only natural he lives by the motto of taking care of your people.

"I believe a good leader takes care of their people, and in turn their people will take care of them," said Braden.

As the career assistance advisor for all of Wright-Patterson, his main goal focuses on the professional development of the enlisted force, where he assists Airmen in making informed career decisions.

Dr. Black said Braden is an awesome guy, and she was not surprised when he reached the Air Force level for the award. She said it didn't come because of his position or the people he knows, but it came because of the work he brings, which is unique and rare.

Surprisingly enough, with Braden's hard work and good leadership skills one would never guess it is his first time receiving an annual award.

"I think when I was a young non-commissioned officer, I competed at the squadron level once and lost. That's the only time I've gone up for annuals," said Braden.

With the constant mentality of being true to himself and his Airmen he finally comes out on top. For Airmen aspiring to be successful, Braden gives a piece of advice to follow.

"The Air Force values the whole person concept frequently; however, there is no one indicator. We have a little book called the Enlisted Force Structure that tells us what to do. Air Force Instruction 36-2618, [is] our moral compass. I believe if you embody it, then you will be successful," said Braden. "You might not be one of 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year, but you will definitely be successful," he chuckles.

Braden will receive the Outstanding Airman ribbon with the bronze service star device and will wear the Outstanding Airmen badge for one year. He will also serve on the Air Force Enlisted Council.

The Air Force Association honors the 12 Outstanding Airmen at its annual convention in Washington D.C.