Master sergeant named best LRS instructor in AF

Published April 23, 2010
By Mr. Allan Bourbina
18th Logistics Readiness Squadron

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- One of Kadena's Senior NCOs was recognized last week as Air Force's Logistics Readiness Instructor of the Year.

Master Sgt. Charles L. Lakin, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron, PACAF Transportation Training Center, says he owes this honor to the PTTC leadership and fellow instructors for the opportunity to compete at the Air Force level.

It is an individual award but, collectively it was a team effort from all the instructors.

"It truly and humbling honor to receive this award," Sergeant Lakin said. "Not only for myself, but on behalf of the school, we earned it together."

Sergeant Lakin is the superintendent of the PACAF Training Center, responsible for providing advanced automotive technology training to over 500 military and civilian automotive technicians throughout the PACAF region. Using a curriculum of 14 vehicle management and technology courses, he said the great thing about his job is the travel and the fact they award Community College of the Air Force credits to their graduating students.

"The highlight of my last two years at the school has been the vision to provide the command the best and most advance automotive technology training possible," Sergeant Lakin said. "Other memorable accomplishments are that we were the first in the Air Force to teach field-level Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles and welding courses."