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85th FTS Airman wins AETC 2014 BIG award

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Jhanelle Haag
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  A Laughlin Airman was awarded the 2014 Air Education and Training Command Blacks in Government Meritorious Service Award, here.

The award was given to Laughlin's 1st Lt. Douglas Jenkins, 85th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot, for his commitment to the core values and outstanding volunteer efforts.

This award honors military members and Department of Defense civilian employees, who have supported the DOD mission, overseas contingency operations, demonstrated role model qualities and the core values of their respective military service or other DOD component, explained Beth Harris AETC special trophies and awards manager.

"Lt. Jenkins is a shiny example of the leadership and initiative desired in public service," said Lt. Col. Brian Patterson, 85th FTS commander. "His ability to balance his officer and instructor duties while also accomplishing community outreach is truly inspiring."

Highlights of Jenkins career include multiple squadron recognitions. He has been awarded volunteer of the month four times, junior company grade officer of the month and volunteer of the quarter.

"Going out and volunteering isn't about gratitude to me," said Jenkins. "It's about being able to put a smile on someone's face or making their day that much better."

His most important opportunity to inspire and lead from the front came when he had the opportunity to speak at his alma mater, Tuskegee University, in front of 100 Air Force ROTC cadets.

"It was a way for everything so far in my career to come full circle," said Jenkins. "I remember sitting there as a cadet and seeing the former cadets in flight suits mentoring us and talking to us. That always inspired me to think I could do that if I just work hard enough. So it was great for me to go back and show them this is what can happen."

Jenkins doesn't just inspire on the base but in the Del Rio community with the Feds Feed Families food drive and Young Eagles programs. Other organizations Jenkins has been involved in include, Battle of the Border Mud Run and the Fall Festival.

"To me, if you are able bodied or have the ability to go out and help, why wouldn't you," said Jenkins. "It was the way I was raised to always help others.