Patriot Honor Guard salutes top performers Published March 17, 2009 By JC Corcoran 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Hanscom's Patriot Honor Guard recognized its top performers at an annual honors banquet, held March 13 at the Minuteman Club. More than 200 guests and honor guard members from New England and New York attended the banquet. Electronic Systems Center Commander Lt. Gen. Ted Bowlds presented the Patriot Honor Guard Enlisted Member of the Year award for 2008 to Senior Airman Zana Hikmat, 66th Mission Support Squadron. Brig. Gen. Terry Feehan, ESC vice commander, presented the 2008 Patriot Honor Guard Officer of the Year award to 1st Lt. John Myers, 46th Test Squadron Detachment 1. Col. Dave Orr, 66th Air Base Wing commander, presented the 2008 Master Sgt. Lenny Lanier Award to 2nd Lt. Christopher Rose, 853rd Electronic Systems Group. Special recognition was given to John Collins, Bugles Across America Massachusetts director. Bugles Across America is an organization which promotes playing a live rendition of taps for every veteran who is laid to rest. Colonel Orr presented Mr. Collins with the Air Force Commander's Public Service Award for his contributions and efforts as a member of Bugles Across America. Mr. Collins' awards citation states, "In 2008 [Mr. Collins] honored over 487 heroes, giving something back to those who put their lives on the line for him. His ceaseless efforts, outstanding dedication, professionalism and tremendous self-sacrifice brought great comfort to countless grieving families." Also recognized with certificates of appreciation for their contributions and support of the honor guard were members of American Legion Post 48 Honor Guard Team from Hudson, N. H., as well as Commander Eric Lance who also plays taps at veterans' funerals.