HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – A Department of the Air Force civilian officer assigned to the 66th Security Forces Squadron was recently named one of the top 2020 Air Force Outstanding Security Forces members.
Corporal Bernardino “Bernie” Coelho, 66 SFS lead police officer, received the Flight Level Civilian Employee (Supervisor) award for extraordinary contributions made to the Air Force throughout the year.
“I was very surprised to learn I had won,” said Coelho. “It’s humbling.”
Coelho was the sole Air Force Life Cycle Management Center defender to win a category, and one of only to from across the Air Force Materiel Command.
“This is great news to kick off the New Year and an extraordinary achievement,” said Lt. Gen. Shaun Morris, AFLCMC commander in a message to the workforce.
Senior leaders acknowledged the significance of Coelho’s win among the high-level of security forces competition, but said his commitment to excellence and emphasis on community safety made him more than worthy.
Last year, Coelho saved the life of a stroke victim after administering first aid for five minutes until paramedics arrived on scene. Squadron officials also said he was the most proactive law enforcement officer, writing more than 90 safety-focused citations.
“Corporal Coelho is an exceptional police officer, teammate and leader,” said Maj. Shane Watts, 66 SFS commander. “This is a monumental achievement and validates the incredible year he had.”
Coelho has been at Hanscom for five years, and credits his team of military and civilian wingmen for his success.