MANSFIELD, Ohio- Five Airmen selected to represent the 179th Airlift Wing, Mansfield, Ohio, in their respective Airman of the Year categories are headed to compete at the state level this weekend in Columbus, Ohio. State competitions in the state of Ohio are some of the most challenging in the nation to win, considering the large Ohio National Guard presence throughout the state. The best of four major wings and their geographically separated units will be represented.
Representing the Airman category, Senior Airman Logan Wilson, Cyber Surety Journeyman assigned to the 179th Communications Flight. As a vital member of the Wing Cybersecurity Office he provides services to monitor, evaluate/maintain systems, and policies/procedures which protects clients, networks, data/voice systems and critical infrastructure from unauthorized activity.
In 2019, Wilson stood out for revising the Risk Management Framework program, re-engineering the Data Loss Prevention program, and remediating multiple vulnerabilities bolstering the Wing’s cyber security posture. Wilson is also pursuing a civilian career in the health care industry and has volunteered a great deal of time with Equitas Health, COSI Pharmacology and Safe Point’s patient navigator program helping the homeless.
Representing the Non Commissioned Officer category, Staff Sgt. Carolyn J. Kinzel, C-130 Loadmaster assigned to the 164th Airlift Squadron. As a Loadmaster Journeyman, Kinzel is
responsible for the supervision of aircraft loading and off-loading operations. She performs pre-flight and post-flight inspections of aircraft and aircraft systems as well as weight and balance
computations of the aircraft for safe flight operations. She is qualified to perform a full spectrum of day and nighttime combat air land and airdrop missions. Kinzel also represents the Ohio National Guard working with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in Cleveland, Ohio, as a Criminal Analyst.
In 2019, Kinzel deployed as a C-130 Loadmaster in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, accomplishing 32 combat missions, 89 combat flight hours delivering 181 tons of mission critical cargo and 685 combat passengers and earning an Air Medal for her efforts. Kinzel was also recognized by the DEA for developing top-notch analytical support combatting the opioid epidemic.
Representing the Senior Non Commissioned Officer category, Master Sgt. Anthony D. Washington, Security Forces Craftsman. He is a Security Forces Operations A-Flight Security Forces Craftsman and the Non-Commissioned Officer-In-Charge of the Security Forces Squadron Combat Arms Program. Washington is responsible for evaluating, scheduling and conducting training of all weapons qualifications and inspections for the entirety of the 179th Airlift Wing and 200th RED HORSE Squadron. Successfully leading, managing, supervising, and performing force protection duties to protect base personnel and priority level resources, Washington ensures both the 179th AW and 200th RHS are mission capable and ready when called upon.
In 2019, Washington is credited with revamping and updating the weapons qualifications program, identifying deficiencies and eliminating waste. His program enhancements increased the expertise of Security Forces members and improved readiness of over 1200+ members. Leading the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance program, his team was tasked with overcoming challenges of relocating qualifications training to off base sites around the state.
Representing the First Sergeant category, Master Sgt. Daniel W. Bauer, First Sergeant for 179th Mission Support Group. As the First Sergeant, Bauer maintains the discipline, standards, health & welfare of approximately 400 enlisted personnel and ensures discipline is fair and equitable, providing counsel and assistance as needed. Bauer advises the commander on performance reports, awards, promotions and manages the recognition program.
In 2019, Bauer stood out for going above and beyond as a wingman looking out for his fellow Airmen. From alleviating hardships of deployed Airmen with Red Cross emergencies to potentially saving lives by recognizing early warning signs of suicide, Bauer ensured Airmen were taken care of. As the 1st Sergeant’s Council President, Bauer led by example and supported mentoring efforts across the base.
Representing the Company Grade Officer category, Capt. Walter Borowicz, 179th Comptroller Flight commander. Borowicz commands the Financial Management Analysis (FMA) and Financial Services Office (FSO) for the Airlift Wing and the 200th REDHORSE Squadron. This office is charged with providing budgeting, accounting, and pay customer service for the organization. Borowicz also functions as the Director of Staff for the Air Wing Headquarters.
In 2019, Borowicz displayed superb fiscal management and organizational skills helping ensure effective current mission readiness and bolstered crucial infrastructure projects. He achieved excellent fiscal year execution rates while overseeing wing resources and budgets. As a key player on the Senior Management Council, he ensured effective communication to the Adjutant General. Borowicz was hand-selected by 179th Airlift Wing leadership to serve as Director of Staff for the Air Wing Headquarters in addition to his role as the Comptroller Flight commander, overseeing the tasks and training requirements of an additional 62 Airmen.
Each member was recognized as the Airman of the Year for the 179th Airlift Wing at the commanders All Call in December, 2019, and qualified to compete at the state level in January 2020. Winners at the state level will move on to compete at the national level. Best of luck to each of our Airmen at the next level!
