Laboratory directorate recognizes people

  • Published
  • By Rich Garcia
  • Air Force Research Laboratory Public Affairs
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO --  A researcher who was presented an Air Medal and a Joint Service Commendation Medal was the first of 24 people at the Air Force Research Laboratory's Directed Energy Directorate here who were recognized at a ceremony on Feb. 22.

Lt. Col. Dennis Montera was presented the 1st Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal and the Joint Service Commendation Medal for his actions while temporarily deployed to Iraq.

First Lt. Thomas Poupakis and Tech. Sgt. Hiram Kirkland were presented Air Force Commendation Medals for efforts at previous assignments. Sergeant Kirkland was presented the medal with the 1st Oak Leaf Cluster. First Lt. Hollie Schiller-Lawrie was also recognized, receiving an Air Force Achievement Medal for work at a previous assignment.

The Exemplary Civilian Service Award was presented to Edward Duff, reflecting leadership and performance contributing to Air Force science and technology.

Eighteen others were recognized with quarterly awards in various categories: They included Anthony Sanchez for Scientist and Engineer, James Degnan for Senior Program Management, Cynthia Lynch for Senior Mission Support, Shad Smith for Junior Mission Support, Stephanee Campbell for Administrative Excellence, Nicholas Tarasenko for Technical Transfer Achievement, and Suzanne Atwood for Director's Special Recognition.

There were three quarterly team awards: Mark Lehr and Donicio Chama for Technical Teamwork; Robert Clougherty, Joseph Peel, Renee Cousins, Alvin Sullen and Roland Cantu for Mission Support Teamwork; and Linda Lamberson, Rudy Martinez, 1st Lt. Joseph Friel and 1st Lt. Brian Spanbauer for Director's Special Recognition.

Also recognized was Kevin Slimak with a certificate for 30 years of government service.