KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Senior Master Sgt. Frank Strong of the 403rd Wing has been named the Air Force Reserve Command Safety Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for Fiscal Year 2024.
This prestigious award is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing safety across the Air Force Reserve Command.
Upon receiving the award Strong said, “I am very humbled by this recognition, and honestly I believe that it reflects not just my contributions, but each unit’s commitment to our safety culture within the 403d Wing.”
During the award period, Strong displayed outstanding leadership by managing an effective Occupational Safety program across four groups, 16 units, and three geographically separated units, encompassing approximately 1,600 personnel.
“His six actionable safety recommendations significantly enhanced operational standards, directly benefiting the welfare of over 800 aircraft maintenance members and 20 aircraft,” said Lt. Col. Sean Cross, 403rd Wing chief of safety.
Strong also spearheaded a critical initiative to improve flightline maintenance safety.
“His efforts laid the groundwork for future funding and implementation of flightline fall protection systems, potentially influencing safety protocols across the entire Air Force,” said Cross. “Strong also united multiple stakeholders to secure funding and complete a shop blast facility project, ensuring the protection of personnel and resources.”
Beyond his professional responsibilities, he helped with the organization of his second annual blues festival fundraiser.
“The blues festival, which helps local business revenue, tourism, and festival vendors, raised over $1,500 in funds for donation,” said Strong. “As a blues lover, I wanted to help promote public school music programs in my local area and help ease some financial burden for parents and student who have to purchase their own musical instruments.”
The funds provided quality instruments to first-year band students, who met the criteria and recommendations of the school band director.
This award showcases Strong’s remarkable contributions to safety, innovation, and teamwork.
“We’ve had many challenges over the past few years, and every member has played a significant role in overcoming those challenges,” said Strong. “We will be presented with many more safety challenges in the future regarding Air Force Force Generation and the Great Power Competition, and our safety culture will be vital to facing some of these challenges.”