Airfield technician named July’s top Airman

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Frank Casciotta
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Airman 1st Class Chris Savage, an airfield management technician with the 71st Communication Squadron, is the 71st Flying Training Wing Airman of the Month for July at Vance AFB.

"I was actually shocked that I won," said Savage, who was also named Airman of the Month in February 2011.

As an airfield management technician, Savage maintains both air-to-ground radio equipment used by air traffic controllers to communicate with pilots, and instrument landing systems used by pilots to safely land their aircraft on a daily basis.

"I get a real sense of accomplishment knowing I maintain the equipment that helps keep the pilots safe," said Savage, a native of Moore, Okla.

"I submitted Airman Savage (for AOM) because he's been doing such great work," said Staff Sgt. Manuel Feliz, the work center supervisor for the 71st CS. "He has spearheaded a lot of high profile maintenance activities and outages we've had."

Not only has Savage been demonstrating a solid work ethic within the office, but he also volunteers his free time to activities on base.

"He volunteered 36 hours working with Camp Tomahawk and used his knowledge of the state to act as a guide when the campers went to Oklahoma City," said Feliz.

With more than two years on active duty, Savage can already tell he wants to commit 20 years to the Air Force.

"I love both the atmosphere and camaraderie that surround the Air Force and the opportunity to protect those around me by serving my country," said Savage.