Niagara Airman earns top performer honors at WAREX

Published Aug. 22, 2013
By Tech. Sgt. Andrew Caya
914th Airlift Wing

NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y. -- Two 30th Aerial Port Squadron Airmen here were recognized for their actions in support of Warrior Exercise/Exercise Global Medic at Fort McCoy, Wisc.

Tech. Sgt. Christopher Barnum and Senior Airman Michelle Reidel were acknowledged for their contributions for WAREX, July 12 through August 2.

The exercise provided units an opportunity to rehearse military maneuvers and tactics. Held in conjunction with WAREX, Global Medic is an annual joint-field training exercise designed to replicate all aspects of theater combat medical support.

Barnum, a special handling NCO, was named a top performer out of the 200 Airmen that participated in WAREX.

Barnum said he and the Niagara Team were part of the WAREX crew that set up and tore down the entire forward operating base.

"This had a deployment-like feel," said Barnum. "As soon as we landed, we unloaded our machinery and started working right away and didn't stop until the equipment was loaded back on the aircraft when the exercise ended."

Barnum said his troops also gained the attention of their superiors, praising Reidel in particular.

"Airman Reidel is new to our unit, but she's been a bright spot for us," said Barnum. "She did not shy away from any opportunities. She basically ran the whole passenger operation."

Reidel received a U.S. Army general's coin recognizing her for her work as a passenger service agent.

"While we were there we also assisted with manifesting passengers, cargo and ensured everyone was accounted for while on the aircraft," said Barnum. They knew who each and every aircraft passenger was and where they were located.

Reidel said she thoroughly enjoyed WAREX.

"It was a great training experience," said Reidel. "I was able to do things I've never done before. Going down there really helped me appreciate what we (Aerial Porters) do because what we do is awesome."