Diamond Sharp Award January 2020

  • Published
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs

Every month, a first sergeant has the honor of choosing a deserving Airman to be presented the Holloman’s First Sergeant Council’s Diamond Sharp Award for an outstanding act or continuous outstanding performance.

For the month of January, Master Sgt. Willie Hayes, 49th Equipment Maintenance Squadron first sergeant, is proud to present the Diamond Sharp Award to Staff Sgt. Serena Beaird, 49th EMS unit deployment manager.

Staff Sgt. Beaird coordinated the successful deployment and return of 34 personnel. She planned a luncheon for 18 personnel deploying and their family members to bolster camaraderie and introduce the family to the 49th EMS top leadership and Key Spouses Group leading into the Christmas Holiday. She purchased food and drinks for approximately 35 personnel making the event a success.

Furthermore, Beaird led 10 volunteers, organized, and shipped 9 Holiday boxes to 5 countries for 16 currently deployed personnel. The boxes included cookies, stockings and a custom ornaments, provided by the 49th EMS Key Spouses Group. Finally, to cap off the month of December, she completed her Community College of the Air Force Degree in Applied Sciences.

Q1. What is your current job and what does it entail?
 A1. My current job is the unit deployment manager. I am responsible for tracking the deployment readiness for 402 assigned personnel. I ensure that all individuals who are tasked to deploy are qualified through medical, Combat Arms Training; Maintenance, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense; Self-Aid Buddy Care as well as all the required Computer Based Trainings. I also ensure that all deployers depart with all the gear required to complete the mission. We are currently tracking individuals in six different countries.

Q2. How long have you been in the AF?
A2. I am almost at my 10 year mark and about to re-enlist.

Q3. Where are you from?
A3. Originally, I am from a small mountaintop town outside San Diego. Julian is known for their apple pies and gold mining. It is a very small town, very similar to Cloudcroft.

Q4. What is your favorite part of your job?
A4. My favorite part of my job is that I get to work with different base agencies and all different Air Force Specialty Codes. It’s a lot of coordination which I really enjoy doing. I really enjoy getting to know people from all walks of life and this job allows me to do that.

Q5. What are some of your hobbies?
A5. My hobbies are horseback riding, running and hiking. I have been riding since I could walk, it is my go-to when I am frustrated and need to burn off some frustrations. I am currently training to compete in my first half marathon, which will be the Whiskey Row Half in Prescott, Ariz. My daughter and I have really enjoyed the area and discovering some very awesome hiking trails.