DeLee is named 434th ARW NCO of the Year Published Dec. 9, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Ben Mota 434th ARW Public Affairs Staff GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind., -- Recognized for his outstanding performance as a noncommissioned officer, Tech. Sgt. Robert DeLee, 434th Security Forces Squadron fire team leader, was named 434th Air Refueling Wing NCO of the Year. Sergeant DeLee's duties include supervision of a fire team in tactical situations, including combat and security missions, and can fill in as squad leader during times of need. According to his nomination packet, the sergeant "ensures continuous improvement of his team's skills in achieving force protection objectives." The nomination packet, which is prepared by Sergeant DeLee's leadership, also stated that he is "recognized by senior unit leadership for management skills and abilities to direct operations." Sergeant DeLee also stated he has the task of training up new security forces Airmen on his team. "I enjoy the responsibilities of teaching skills to the new Airmen and mentoring them as they advance in their military careers," he said. The fire team leader has served in the Reserve for approximately 11 years. Before that time, he served four years on active duty. Sergeant DeLee recently completed a tour of duty at a location in Southwest Asia in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was commended by the Defense Force Commander for "superior performance and leadership skills," and volunteered numerous hours off duty to manage the creation of aggressive defense measures used to deter hostile insurgent activity all while deployed. In addition to his job duties at work and as a civilian, the sergeant coaches a junior-league soccer program, is involved in neighborhood watch programs, performs duties as a Drug Abuse Resistance and Education officer in local school systems, and annually supports the 434th ARW blood drive.
