Salt Lake Military Affairs recognizes Reserve members during gala event Published Sept. 8, 2006 By Senior Airman Nathan Greer 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HILL AIR FORCE BASE, UT -- Two members of the 419th Fighter Wing were honored June 3 by the Salt Lake Chamber' Military Affairs Committee which recognized them for their accomplishments and efforts as citizen soldiers. The event, hailed as one of the most patriotic functions in the state of Utah, honors Utah National Guard and Reserve personnel in an effort to show support for military members' service. Recognized were 1st Lt. James Harrison, the executive officer for the wing's Operations Group, and Senior Master Sgt. Sheila Brown, first sergeant for the Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. Both members deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom late last year. As the executive officer for the Operation Group, Lieutenant Harrison played a critical role in preparing the 466th Fighter Squadron for deployment to Balad Air Base, Iraq late last year. Deploying as a member of the advance team, he prepared for the unit's arrival while working closely with the unit that was leaving to insure an easy transition. Lieutenant Harrison is an Eagle Scout and has served as a volunteer fire fighter and Emergency Medical Technician. He is also a member of a local Certified Emergency Response Team which responds in case of emergencies and organizes communities in case of a disaster. "It's a great award for Lt. Harrison," said Lt. Col. Christian Funk, 419th Operations Group commander. "But it doesn't really give him due credit for all the work he does." Sergeant Brown has worked as her unit's first sergeant for the last three years. Sergeant Brown volunteered to deploy to Iraq in support of OIF and provided up-to-date information to prepare deploying troops. She spearheaded family briefings, provided health care and benefit information for family members, and created personal information sheets for deploying personnel so that special needs and support were provided to families. During another deployment to the Naval Air Station in Key West, Fla., Sergeant Brown worked hard to reduce the number of lodging and pay issues for deployed individuals. Sergeant Brown's commander, Lt. Col. Lynne Hull, is very pleased with the recognition that Sergeant Brown received. "No one deserves it more than Sergeant Brown," she said. "She's what a first sergeant is supposed to be. She puts her people first without worrying about the politics involved." Both Sergeant Brown and Lieutenant Harrison said they enjoyed the event and appreciated receiving the community recognition. "The evening was definitely a highlight in my career," Lieutenant. Harrison said. "My parents were there and they had never been to anything like that before. It was eye opening for them to see what the military does for our community." Sergeant Brown agreed. "I thought it was outstanding that the chamber would recognize the military in such a manner. I was impressed by it and felt honored to be there," she said.