Greene, Woodbury selected for early promotion to senior airman

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Frank Casciotta
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Two Airmen from the 71st Operations Support Squadron will put on their third stripe early under the below-the-zone promotion program.

Airmen 1st Class Raymond Greene, an air traffic controller in the radar approach control building, and Scott Woodbury, an air traffic controller in the control tower, were selected for early promotion due to outstanding job performance and exemplifying what it means to be an Airman.

"I actually found out I was selected while I was home on emergency leave," said Greene. "My commander called me two or three days after I got home to let me know I won BTZ," said Greene. "It was good to have some uplifting news during that time."

Greene is grateful for the support he got from his supervisors.

"There's a lot that goes into it," said Greene, a Smethport, Pa., native. "There is what I do and what my supervisor does for my package," said Greene. "I had a lot of help from the sergeants here when it came figuring out what I should be doing for a strong package."

Greene is undecided if he will commit himself to 20 years of service in the Air Force, but is enjoying himself so far.

Woodbury received the news he won BTZ while directing air traffic. His commander came in unexpectedly to personally inform and congratulate him on his promotion.

"It was nice of my commander to take time out of his day to do that for me," said Woodbury, a Boston native. "It felt good."

Selection for below-the-zone isn't just about being an overachiever in the workplace, though it doesn't hurt," said Staff Sgt. Justin McNelly, the air traffic control tower watch supervisor. "It's about the entire Airman concept.

"He is the best performer among his peers," said McNelly. "From his volunteering and training to the way he conducts himself, there is nothing he doesn't do well," said McNelly.

Like Greene, Woodbury is not sure if he's going to make the Air Force a career.