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Reserve Citizen Airman first recipient of Reserve Officers Association award

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Laura Turner
  • 310th Space Wing Public Affairs

Master Sgt. Christina Stewart said she was speechless when she received a call from Chief Master Sgt. Octavio Ortiz, Air Force Reserve Command’s Development and Training Flight program manager, informing her she won the 2019 Reserve Officers Association’s Outstanding Enlisted of the Year award.

“I felt like a babbling fool on the phone,” said Stewart. “I really was shocked.”

Stewart is the flight chief of the 310th Space Wing’s D&TF program, managing the necessary resources and mentoring the trainees before they leave for Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas.

“My job is to grow the program and build a good relationship with the trainees,” said Stewart. “If they have personal issues, I can point them to the right resources so they can receive help and stay in the Air Force.”

Former trainees of Stewart’s showed their support, congratulating her in a social media post.

“She works hard and makes sure all of us former and new trainees are squared away for BMT, as well as in-processing,” said Richard Nelson, a former trainee. “She shows us what it takes to be a great Airman, going above and beyond for us. It is a well-deserved award to a great Airman.”

Another former trainee echoed Nelson’s comments and also praised Stewart as an inspiration to many.

“Thank you for showing us the right path,” said Javier Lorenzo, addressing Stewart directly. “Your dedication, determination, hard work and passion are qualities that make you super special.”

Stewart has been invited to, and will be attending, the ROA’s Annual National Convention in Des Moines, Iowa, Sept. 27th to receive the award.

“I’m honored Chief Master Sgt. Ortiz wanted to recognize the work I’ve done with the D&TF over the last 3 years to nominate me for this award," said Stewart. "I am also proud to represent the 310 SW when I accept it."