LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Unit and job title: 47th Security Forces Squadron patrolman
Why he XLed: Airman 1st Class Matthew McGonigal, 47th Security Forces Squadron patrolman, conducted an eight-hour military working dog training that strengthened Laughlin’s K-9 capabilities, reinforcing aggression capes for three teams. McGonigal responded to and deescalated a domestic dispute, restoring order to a dangerous situation and ensuring nobody was hurt. He also took major steps toward his criminal justice degree, maintaining a 3.7 GPA and even leading three of his fellow Airmen to pursue their degrees. After completing CPR and PTL training, McGonigal led his flight’s PT sessions, helping the unit reach 100 percent physical fitness assessment passing rate, with an average score of 89 percent. McGonical also volunteered his own time to help Base Airmen Against Drunk Driving, giving two safe rides home for his wingmen and eliminating potential DUI’s for the wing.