HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The latest episode of Team Hanscom Today highlights the installation’s continued focus on leadership development, recognition of outstanding personnel and infrastructure improvements at Sartain Gate.
Master Sgt. Talisa Bell, Airman Leadership School commandant, guest hosted the episode and opened by emphasizing the importance of leadership training.
“At ALS, we provide Airmen with the tools they need to lead with confidence, conquer challenges with agility and live out our core values,” Bell said. “It’s an honor to help shape the next generation of Air Force leaders.”
Bell congratulated the most recent ALS graduates, who completed training July 17, and encouraged them to carry forward the lessons learned.
She also recognized Tech. Sgt. Michael Kearns, an ALS instructor selected to attend Officer Training School.
“Congratulations, Tech. Sgt. Kearns. We are proud of you and look forward to seeing all you accomplish at OTS and beyond,” Bell said.
The episode also featured five personnel from the Electronic Systems and Cyber and Networks Directorates who received a prestigious national award. Capt. Joshua Willis, Maj. Gage Egierski, 1st Lt. Caitlin Kelly, Master Sgt. Cinnamon Nave and Senior Airman Jonael Rios received the 2025 Tuskegee Airmen Inc. National Military Award for exemplary leadership and service.
“These outstanding performers are a true reflection of the excellence across HBC, HNI and HNC,” said Bell.
To conclude the episode, Bell highlighted the July 16 ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opening the new Sartain Gate. The event marked a key milestone in a multi-phase construction effort that began in 2022.
Speakers from the 66th Air Base Group, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Massachusetts state government participated in the ceremony, which honors Senior Airman Nathan Sartain. Sartain, a former member of the 66th Security Forces Squadron, was killed in 2015 in a C-130J Super Hercules crash in Afghanistan.
Base officials reminded drivers that while the new entry control point is operational, ongoing construction may require lane shifts. Motorists are encouraged to stay alert and follow posted signage.
“From developing Airmen, to recognizing award-winning service, to improving base infrastructure — Team Hanscom is pushing forward with pride,” said Bell.
To view this episode or past broadcasts, visit the Hanscom AFB YouTube page.