Airman receives state-level AFSA award

  • Published
  • By Airman Mike Young
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Hard work finally paid off as an Airman from the 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron was recently awarded the Air Force Sergeants Association First Term Airman of the Year award. 

Senior Airman Stephen Stokes, a B-52 avionics system evaluator with the 31st TES, represented Edwards at the division level after winning the local competition. 

The AFSA award has three levels to it the first is the chapter, or base, level. The winner of that competition moves on to the division level, which is a state competition, then the international division, where Airmen compete globally. 

Airman Stokes has competed and won the chapter and state levels, and is now hoping to win the international division, said Master Sgt. Steven Walden, 412th Flight Test Squadron superintendent and AFSA Chapter 1328 president. 

At the international competition, he will compete against 14 nominees for the title of the AFSA International First Term Airman of the Year. 

The competition began when AFSA realized there is a need to recognize the lower-ranking Airmen, who may someday become leaders themselves, Sergeant Walden said. 

"It's a stepping stone for those who are about to do something great," he said. 

Every year, the chapter presidents send a memorandum to base commanders, chiefs and first sergeants, requesting nominations for the most deserving and qualified Airman under their command. 

The Airmen selected go before a board of senior leadership to be interviewed. 

"This is one of Airman Stokes' strong points," said Sergeant Walden. "On paper he's competitive, but when you meet him, you can't help but notice his charisma. That's what really draws you to him." 

Airman Stokes began winning this award when he first enlisted, Sergeant Walden said. 

He finished top in his class in technical school and was also an Airman leader during that time, Sergeant Walden said. He has been recognized on numerous occasions and won various awards throughout his career. 

"When you talk to Airman Stokes, you're talking to an Airman who really knows what's going on both outside and inside the military," he said. 

"Winning the award is a very humbling experience," Airman Stokes said. "Just to have that many people take me that far, then put their faith in me to see how far I could go is a very humbling experience." 

Airman Stokes said he joined the Air Force to get out, see the world and to gain a different perspective on life. 

"I plan on making it a career, and my goal is to become a chief master sergeant," he said. 

Ever since he joined, his leadership has been testing him, he said. This has been his motivation to excel. 

"I don't feel anything really separates me from the other Airmen," Airman Stokes said. "A big part of my success came from my leadership, guidance and mentoring I received along the way." 

Airman Stokes said his advice to those Airmen who want to succeed is to show motivation. 

"Take care of your leadership and peers because you will count on them just like they count on you."