Whiteman wins five awards - 'Best in ACC' Published Dec. 14, 2009 By Heidi Hunt 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- The Headquarters Air Combat Command Directorate of Manpower and Personnel annual awards, announced Dec. 3, included several winners from the 509th Force Support Squadron. The 509th FSS garnered three team awards: Club of the Year, Fitness and Sports Program of the Year and Resource Management Program of the Year. Additionally, two members from the squadron received individual awards. Graelin Garlington, club manager, was recognized, as ACC Sustainment Services Manager of the Year; and Staff Sgt. Tiffany Mathews, Nonappropriated/Appropriated Funds accountant, was named Services NCO of the Year. "Please pass my congratulations to the outstanding Airmen of the 509th on a job well done," said Maj. Gen. Floyd Carpenter, Eighth Air Force commander. "Your programs and personnel truly stand out as the best in ACC." The unit's commander was just as pleased with their accolades. "For everyone in FSS, please realize that your hard work is not going unnoticed," said Lt. Col. David Stanfield. "You're doing great things for the people at this base and they need what we provide. I continue to be both amazed and impressed with what you all are doing." The FSS constantly surpasses itself according to Dennis McCabe, 509th FSS deputy commander. "This is a second win for both the club and the fitness center," Mr. McCabe said. "It's quite an honor." Colonel Stanfield echoed his praise. "Club membership rates are the best in ACC, and people don't join the club unless it has something to offer," Colonel Stanfield said. "The staff has been able to produce great products, great food and entertainment. They are attracting people to join the club. The fitness center is providing amazing support for the base, and recently achieved its first five-star rating from the Headquarters Services Agency." This is the sixth year in a row the resource management program section has won at the ACC level, according to Dianne Maness, chief of resource management. Additionally, the Whiteman Inn took first place in ACC Innkeeper Award competition for best small base lodging operation, and the Ozark Inn Dining Facility was runner up in ACC for the Hennessy Award for best food service operation. Each team award recipient was graded on mission accomplishment, innovation, leadership, management and customer focus. Each individual recipient was graded on leadership and job performance in their primary duty, significant self-improvement and community relations. "The thing that makes me most proud is the squadron takes outstanding care of our patrons," Colonel Stanfield said. "Our whole existence is based on excellent customer service." The ACC awards complete a good year for the squadron according to Colonel Stanfield. The unit will compete at Air Force-level in January 2010.