Grissom NAF employees win annual awards Published May 30, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Carl Berry 434th ARW Public Affairs GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind. -- By following their motto of sustain, replace and repair, two 434th Grissom non-appropriated fund civilian employees took home some shiny hardware and an affirmation of a job well done. Richard Vining, 434th Force Support Squadron lodging operations manager, was named the 434th Air Refueling Wing NAF Civilian Supervisor of the Year, and John Reynolds, 434th FSS lodging maintenance worker, was named the 434th ARW NAF Civilian Non-supervisor of the Year. "Sustain, replace, and repair is a motto that we all follow here, where we are constantly monitoring the hotel and staying one-step ahead of any potential issues," said Vining. "By constantly monitoring the hotel we save money and most importantly keep the facility looking and running great, which is something our guests enjoy." Mary Mclean, 434th FSS general lodging manager, said the two award winners play an important role in maintaining Grissom's lodging. "Many people will never interact with Richard or John because their work is behind the scenes, but without their roles the hotel would not be available for guests to use," explained McLean. "They really are a key component to the hotel." When the two learned they were selected as the award recipients both said they felt honored and humbled, because their accomplishment was a team effort. "I am just a small part of the machine and to be singled out is quite an honor," said Reynolds. "Although the award is given to individuals, our team is 100 percent responsible, because they have the same work effort." Although the two recipients said they were humbled by the recognition, their accomplishments are extensive. Reynolds ensured the operational readiness of Grissom's lodging facilities that generate more than $1.3 million in annual revenue. He also ensured proper inventory control by reorganizing all lodging storage areas with structured accountability of assets and was essential in keeping lodging safe by ensuring all walkways were clear of snow and debris. Vining was responsible for flawlessly managing the services vehicle program, revamping the lodging's business center process by allowing wireless printing access 24-hours-a-day, and providing a more relaxed, comfortable and customer friendly seating area by reconfiguring the lodging lobby. Reynolds and Vining will continue to sustain, replace and repair as these words have become more than just a motto to them; they have become a lifestyle. The 434th Air Refueling Wing is the largest KC-135R Stratotanker unit in the Air Force Reserve Command. Airmen and aircraft from the 434th ARW routinely deploy around the world in support of the Air Force mission and U.S. strategic objectives. Stay connected with the 434th ARW on Facebook and Twitter.
