HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass.-- The first episode of Team Hanscom Today highlights award-winning units, opportunities to serve, and winter safety during the first episode in 2026.
Tech. Sgt. Dominque Morris, section chief of the 66th Air Base Group Commander’s Action Group, and Tech. Sgt. Maria Paucar, installation command chief’s executive assistant, hosted the episode and welcomed the community into the new year.
“As we kick off 2026, we want to wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year,” Paucar said. “This is a time to celebrate the people and teamwork that make Team Hanscom successful.”
The episode featured recent Air Force Materiel Command awards earned by units on base, beginning with the Public Affairs team, which received six command-level honors. Among them was the Best Innovation award for Team Hanscom Today, designed to keep Airmen, Guardians, civilians and families informed through recurring, multi-channel communication.
“This program exists to keep our community informed and connected,” Morris said. “Being recognized at the command level speaks to the dedication of the team behind the scenes.”
The Public Affairs team also earned the Brig. Gen. Harry J. Dalton Award, the Air Force’s highest unit-level Public Affairs honor.
Several individuals also received AFMC awards, including 2nd Lt. Olushino Bolden, Jessica Casserly, Andrew Lane and Todd Maki.
In addition to Public Affairs recognition, a branch within the Strategic Services Division earned the 2025 AFMC Outstanding Contracting Unit Enterprise Award.
The award recognized the team’s work renewing long-term agreements valued at $30 billion, extending critical partnerships that support national security research, modern infrastructure and advanced defense capabilities.
“That level of effort ensures our mission partners can continue their work without interruption,” Morris said. “It has a direct impact on readiness and long-term success.”
The episode also spotlighted the 66th Force Support Squadron Patriot Honor Guard, which provides funeral honors across New England and northeastern New York.
With only 10 full-time members, the Honor Guard relies on trained volunteers to support ceremonies honoring Airmen, retirees and veterans.
“Serving on the Honor Guard is one of the most meaningful ways an Airman can give back,” Paucar said. “It’s about honoring those who served before us with dignity and respect.”
As winter weather continues across New England, the hosts closed the episode with a seasonal safety reminder, urging drivers to fully clear snow and ice from their vehicles before traveling.
“Taking a few extra minutes before you drive improves visibility and keeps everyone safer,” said Morris. “And it’s not just a good idea, it’s the law.”
To view this or previous episodes of Team Hanscom Today, visit the Hanscom Air Force Base YouTube page.