Barksdale Airman recognized as Air Force's best

Senior Airman Bryenna Brooks poses with Col. Andrew Gebara, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Larry Malcom, 2 BW command chief, after being told recently she was named one of the Air Force's 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2012. Brooks is a member of the 2nd Medical Operations Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, La. The award recognizes 12 outstanding Air Force enlisted members for superior leadership, job performance, community involvement and personal achievements. The program was initiated at the Air Force Association's annual national conference in New Orleans in 1956. The selection board consists of the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, selected major-command command chiefs and a general officer. The selections are then reviewed by the Air Force Chief of Staff. In addition to being awarded the Outstanding Airman ribbon with the bronze star device, and being able to wear the Outstanding Airman badge for one year, Brooks will also have the opportunity to serve on the Air Force Enlisted Council for one year, representing Team Barksdale and helping shape the future of the Air Force, according to the AFA website. The AFA will honor the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year at an event in Washington, D.C., Sept. 15 to 20. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Benjamin Gonsier)(RELEASED)