Air Force announces Outstanding Airmen for 2026

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) --

Air Force officials selected the service’s top enlisted members, naming the Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2026.

The Outstanding Airmen of the Year (listed alphabetically) are:

Senior Airman Alessandro Bianchini, Air Force Special Operations Command

Senior Airman Nathan J. Carver, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa

Tech. Sgt. Kailey L. DeLage, Air Force Materiel Command

Tech. Sgt. George A. Distel, Air Education and Training Command

Senior Master Sgt. Michael J. Falleroni, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa

Senior Airman Logan A. Grindstaff, Air Force Reserve Command

Senior Airman Sierra F. Mueller, Pacific Air Forces

Master Sgt. Peter J. Nunes, Air Force Global Strike Command

Tech. Sgt. Michael A. Roybal, U.S. Space Force Combat Forces Command

Master Sgt. Andrew L. Schaeffer, Pacific Air Forces

Staff Sgt. Brianna D. St. Lawrence-Brody, Air National Guard

Master Sgt. Catherine L. Young, Air Combat Command

The winners are authorized to wear the Outstanding Airman of the Year Ribbon with the bronze service star device. They are also authorized to wear the OAY badge for one year from the date of formal presentation.