HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The 66th Civil Engineering Division recently received four Air Force Materiel Command-level awards and will now compete at the Air Force level.
These awards recognize leadership, service, and mission success, recognizing both individuals and teams whose contributions support the civil engineering vision and mission.
“Chief [Master Sgt. Jason Vollmer] and I are proud of all your hard work, dedication, and professionalism,” wrote Col. Jorge Jimenez, 66th Air Base Group commander, in an email to the workforce to announce the awards last month. “Best of luck as you compete at the Air Force level.”
Small Fire Department of the Year
Hanscom AFB’s Fire Department was recognized as the Small Fire Department of the Year at the AFMC level for its continued excellence in service.
Among the team’s accomplishments, the fire department provided mutual aid during a four-alarm structure fire at a historic location in Concord, Massachusetts.
“This award highlights the department’s unwavering commitment to fire prevention, safety, and emergency response,” said Dave Wong, 66 CED base engineer. “From rapid and effective emergency responses to innovative training initiatives, the team has not only protected lives and assets on the installation, but have also strengthened community ties through mutual aid and public outreach.”
Brig. Gen. Michael McAuliffe Award
The 66th Civil Engineering Division’s Installation Management Flight earned the Brig. Gen. Michael McAuliffe Award at the AFMC level for exceptional service in maintaining and enhancing the base’s infrastructure.
The CE team processed more than 335 privatized military housing applications, enabling approximately 250 eligible applicants to move in, implementing universal lease for incoming military members, and achieving a 95% occupancy rate.
“The Installation Management Flight has demonstrated unmatched dedication to ensuring quality housing support and services for privatized housing residents,” said Wong. “The team provided proactive solutions to resident concerns, enhancing the quality of life for residents and their families.”
Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Ahearn Award
Michael Nickerson, 66 CED housing management specialist, received the Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Ahearn Award for exceptional leadership and dedication to the civil engineering mission.
This award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the overall effectiveness of the Air Force, both in terms of mission accomplishment and in the professional development of those around them.
“Michael exemplifies the dedication and resourcefulness required to enhance the quality of life for our airmen,” said Wong. “His innovative approach to housing management, commitment to mentorship, and ability to streamline processes have directly improved the morale and well-being of junior enlisted airmen.”
Harry P. Rietman Award
George Bennett, 66 CED chief of heavy repair, received the Harry P. Rietman Award. This award recognizes the Air Force's most outstanding civil engineer senior civilian manager.
CE officials credit Bennett with ensuring adherence to all federal regulations, thereby minimizing injuries and lost work days of CE personnel.
“George Bennett’s exceptional leadership and resourcefulness have directly enhanced the quality of life and operational readiness at Hanscom Air Force Base,” said Wong. “He continuously ensured that critical infrastructure repairs were accomplished, while always fostering a culture of compliance and teamwork.”
Installation Management Flight, along with Ian Stiles and Brent Nagele received runner-up distinction from AFMC.