Kadena civilian employee wins AF Materiel Management Civilian Technician Award

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Maeson L. Elleman
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Mauri Rogers, an Air Force civilian employee on Kadena, recently took home the Air Force Materiel Management Civilian Technician Award for her hard work between Oct. 1, 2009, and Sept. 30, 2010.

The six-year Kadena employee managed Pacific Air Force's largest hazardous materials department, or HAZMART, for the 18th Logistic Readiness Squadron on Kadena during the award period. Now, though she has moved to the 718th Civil Engineer Squadron's Eagle Hardware Store as the lead manager, Ms. Rogers said she feels honored to receive the prestigious LRS award.

"I'm absolutely floored," said Ms. Rogers. "I'm just astounded that I was recognized at that level. I'm happy that the squadron thought enough of me to recognize me and put me up for it."

Though she managed the department, Ms. Rogers said she couldn't have done it without her very supportive team.

"HAZMART worked as a team," Ms. Rogers continued. "We had a lot of challenges to overcome, but we stood together as a team and made it happen. We did what we had to do. I couldn't have even been put in for an award if I didn't have such a good supporting cast."

Lt. Col. Douglas Dickerson, 18th LRS commander, said he feels Ms. Rogers has represented the squadron very well through her devotion and commitment, and she fully deserves the award for her leadership and hard work.

"Ms. Rogers worked tirelessly and enthusiastically managing PACAF's largest Hazardous Material store, and her constant diligence meant she ran a flawless operation, proven time and again when inspectors came through her warehouses," Colonel Dickerson said. "Given everything she does, she's truly deserving of this recognition."

Colonel Dickerson said Ms. Rogers has presented herself as a role model for future Airmen in the squadron, and he expects for her to continue to excel in her new department as well.

"Her recognition is good for everyone who is a part of our materiel management functions," Colonel Dickerson added. "She's long been a mentor for others and I'm proud that this award recognizes what she has contributed to Kadena."