Local Airman named 4th Air Force Airman of the Year Published Feb. 27, 2013 By Staff Sgt. Shane Ellis 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Joint Base Charleston, S.C. -- An Air Force reservist here was selected as the 4th Air Force Airman of the Year for 2012. Senior Airman Brian Jones, 701st Airlift Squadron load master, was chosen by a 4th Air Force selection board, and he will now compete for the Air Force Reserve Command 2013 12 Outstanding Airman of the year Award. Jones Air Force Reserve career began when he decided to follow the footsteps of his father who served on active duty for 22 years. Jones arrived at Lackland AFB, Texas for Basic Military Training Nov. 3, 2009, where he distinguished himself in various aspects and graduated BMT as an honor graduate. Since arriving at the 701 AS, Jones has flown a variety of missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation New Dawn, the war on drugs, aeromedical evacuation, and presidential support. According to Master Sgt. Don Rix, 701 AS load master scheduler, Jones is very deserving of the award. "Senior Airman Jones is a breath of fresh air," said Rix. "He's high energy, easy to work with, and very dependable. Combine that with the fact that he is very mission oriented and you have a very outstanding young Airman." Rix also said that Jones goes above the day-to-day mission needs of the Air Force Reserve and has made numerous donations to Airmen in need. Jones is committed to self-improvement, and he currently maintains a 4.0 GPA at Embry Riddle University where he is pursuing a bachelor's degree in aeronautics. He also has a private pilots' license and has set a goal to become a C-17 pilot in the near future. When asked what advice he would give to other Airmen who are looking to have a successful Air Force Reserve career, Jones had plenty to say. "My advice to other Airmen is to never stop pushing forward," he said. "As Airmen we must take advantage of all the incredible opportunities we are given, do our absolute best, and remember to represent the Air Force at all times." Jones also believes that Airmen must work hard and be proactive in everything they do in life. Goals are important to him and he encourages others to set high goals in education, as well as their career. "Showing your leadership that you are willing to help in any way and to be a standout airmen is the most important thing," said Jones. "Always set goals and strive to achieve them no matter what." With all of his accomplishments, Jones is quick to recognize the people who continue to help him succeed. "Being honored at this level is a very big surprise, and I am extremely grateful to be awarded something such as this," he said. "It is truly an honor to receive this award, and to know that my leadership put in the time and effort to recognize me, amongst their busy schedules, is even more gratifying."