ATLANTIC CITY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.J. – The New Jersey Air National Guard's 177th Fighter Wing has been recognized as an Air Force Outstanding Unit for 2018-2019.
The award is given by the secretary of the Air Force to numbered units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units.
"It was a distinct pleasure to announce this award to the hardworking members of the 177th Fighter Wing," said Col. Bradford R. Everman, the 177th FW commander.
The wing, which last won the award for 2016-2017, submitted a package to the Air Force including over 85 bullet points highlighting its accomplishments, deployments, training, innovative practices, and support for the local community.
"I couldn't have been more proud of our Airmen," said Chief Master Sgt. William C. Perkins, the 177th FW command chief. "The 'Jersey Devils' supplied the Air Force with numerous 'first-evers' in key areas such as deployments, the Aerospace Control Alert mission, hurricane recovery operations and nationally recognized innovations. I had the pleasure of highlighting the Airmen who were engrained in Operations Inherent Resolve, Freedom's Sentinel, and Noble Eagle, while illustrating the superior performance and accomplishments of the Airmen engaged in mission support roles."
Winning the outstanding unit award twice in four years speaks to the 177th Fighter Wing's consistency to perform and provide combat-ready Airmen and equipment for worldwide deployment, while continuing to support the state of New Jersey and its citizens.