News - Category Awards

March 6, 2026
Where Commanders Turn When Decisions Carry Human Consequence

Not every decision a commander makes is measured in timelines, resources or maneuver. Some are measured in trust. Others carry moral weight. Many affect families, unit cohesion and the long-term health of the force
March 5, 2026
The Diamond Before the Decision: How the First Sergeant Academy Strengthens Readiness in an Era of Sustained Competition

A knock at the office door.A commander waiting for counsel.An Airman in crisis.In moments like these, the diamond does not simply represent rank. It represents responsibility—often with real operational consequences.
March 5, 2026
Forging Joint Force Leaders to Win: Air Force Global College Connects 1972 Airpower to Today’s Fight

In the spring of 1972, armored columns pushed south as artillery thundered across Vietnam. Within days, U.S. airpower surged across the globe — bombers, fighters, tankers and carrier air wings moving into position to blunt a conventional invasion. What followed would become one of the most
March 4, 2026
Air University strengthens Joint Force decision advantage

Air University is a warfighting institution. Its mission is to develop leaders and ideas that enable the Joint Force to compete, deter and, when required, fight and win.
Feb. 27, 2026
AFHRA: unlocking the archives

At the Air Force Historical Research Agency, a dedicated team of historians and archivists are tasked with a critical mission: transforming lessons from the battles of yesterday into a decisive strategic advantage for today’s Airmen and Guardians. By maintaining the official repository for Air Force
Feb. 23, 2026
The marathon continues: Tech. Sgt. Royal’s run to leadership

In the Air Force, a single Article 15 can be a dead end. For Tech. Sgt. Ashley Royal, Community College of the Air Force noncommissioned officer in charge of degree programs, it was a beginning.
Feb. 20, 2026
ACSC students analyze modern conflict and Gray Zone challenges

Air Command and Staff College students engaged in in-depth seminars examining strategic competition, modern conflict and maritime security challenges.
Feb. 18, 2026
SAASS: Forging the joint leader

True lethality in 21st-century warfare requires more than mastering an airframe or logistics; it requires global integration. U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Cory Walker, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit maintenance officer, is currently immersed in this philosophy at the Air University’s School of Advanced
Feb. 9, 2026
Unwavering dedication: 2nd Lt. Shelby Pinner

Hailing from the small town of Eddy, Texas, 2nd Lt. Shelby Pinner, Air University commander’s support staff officer in charge, didn’t join the military to follow a family legacy; she joined to build a foundation for her future. Pinner’s journey has been defined by a steep learning curve and a
Feb. 6, 2026
Crusader of the Month: February 2026

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. — Airman Destiny Noryanna Mel, 42d Security Forces Squadron installation entry controller, was awarded February’s Crusader of the Month for her outstanding performance and professionalism. As an installation entry controller, Mel ensures the safety of the installation

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