Wing announces 2016 annual award winners Published Jan. 10, 2017 By Michael Dukes 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The selection boards for the 315th Airlift Wing Airman, non-commissioned officer, senior NCO, company grade officer, field grade officer and first sergeant for calendar year 2016. This year's military winners are: Airman of the Year: Senior Airman Ernie Hightower, 315th Security Forces Squadron NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. Andrew Johansen, Civil Engineering Flight SNCO of the Year: Senior Master Sgt. Scott Boone, 315th SFS Company Grade Officer of the Year: Capt. Adam Malson, 300th Airlift Squadron Field Grade Officer of the Year: Maj. Wayne Capps, 315th Airlift Wing First Sergeant of the Year: Senior Master Sgt. John Speaks, 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron This year’s civilian winners are: Cat I: Paula Baker, 315th Operations Group Cat II: James Ebert, 701st Airlift Squadron "Congratulations to the winners who were chosen to represent the 315th Airlift Wing," said Col. Gregory Gilmore. "These are very special honors and it gives me great pleasure to recognize their outstanding achievements." The enlisted packages and first sergeant package will be forwarded to the 4th Air Force for consideration at the next level. Plaques will be presented during the next appropriate opportunity. "Units who put forth the effort to nominate their deserving personnel for awards are to be commended," Gilmour added. "I urge commanders to continue to take the time to nominate people for these important morale-building awards."