Air Force announces Outstanding Airmen for 2026 Published July 30, 2026 Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) -- Air Force officials selected the service’s top enlisted members, naming the Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2026. The recipients distinguished themes through exceptional leadership, superior performance and unwavering decision to mission accomplishment. Their achievements reflect the highest standards and embody the Air Force Core Values. 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 Air and Space Forces established the Outstanding Airmen of the Year program in 1956 to honor the hard work and professionalism of the Air Force’s enlisted force. Each year’s recipients demonstrate superior leadership, exemplary job performance, community involvement and personal achievement over the preceding 12 months. The 2026 recipients will be recognized at AFA’s national convention later this year. 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. U.S. Air Force Logo