SSgt Robert M. Gentry, a member of the 119th Command and Control Squadron, Knoxville, works on some electrical equipment. The unit was recently awarded the National Guard Association of the United States Distinguished Mission Support Plaque. Photo from: Tennessee Air Guard
From Tennessee Air Guard:
The Tennessee Air National Guard's 119th Command and Control Squadron, at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tenn., was recently awarded the National Guard Association of the United States Distinguished Mission Support Plaque.
The award is presented to outstanding non-flying Air National Guard units with a mission support role. The 119th CACS was one of only three units nationwide to earn this award.
"The Volunteers of the Tennessee Air National Guard's 119th Command and Control Squadron have proudly served Air Force Space Command for the last 12 years," said Lt. Col. Vince Franklin, 119th CACS Commander. "In this time, the men and women of this command have set the standard for space mission support and we are truly honored to have our efforts recognized by NGAUS."
The NGAUS Air National Guard Awards program began in 1960 and has evolved to adapt to changes in the ANG. The Mission Support Trophy is the top-honor for all non-flying ANG units. Competing units are judged on overall operational readiness during the reporting year as well as its performance in relation to all other ANG non-flying units. Selection is based on such criteria as operational readiness inspections, special missions, deployments, exercises, outstanding accomplishments, unit manning levels, attendance, retention and skill level qualifications.
"Each of these units has histories of excellence and this recognition adds to their outstanding reputations. As the best of the best, they are truly deserving of this recognition and I couldn't be more proud of each one," said Maj. Gen. Robert Stonestreet, ANG Assistant to the AFSPC commander.
The 119th CACS, provides training, standardization and evaluation for satellite communication and information system operators. They provide training in systems administration, preventative maintenance, sustainment, configuration management and user support for operation units. They serve as technical experts for the synchronization, planning, system integration and employment of satellite communications and information management systems.
The 119th CACS also serves as an asset to the state of Tennessee, providing the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency as well as other Tennessee civilian emergency services a force ready to react and assist as needed with personnel, facilities, and equipment to support military, federal and civilian agencies.