Civilian awards – recognizing an integral part of the workforce

  • Published
  • By Joe B. Wiles
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  "Vance appropriated fund civilians are an integral part of our workforce," said Col. Richard Murphy, 71st Flying Training Wing vice commander. "Often they are the ones that provide continuity while our active duty members deploy. It is important that we take the time to recognize them." 

The 55th annual Department of Defense Distinguished Civilian Service award is one way of recognizing a civilian employee whose exceptional devotion to duty and significant contributions have added to the operation of DOD. 

Nominations are due to Headquarters, Air Force Personnel Center by March 15. Details for nominating an employee are available from Rhonda Coleman, chief of Vance Civilian Personnel, 213-7813. 

Only a few civilians from throughout DOD will be chosen for the DCS award. But there are a variety of other awards and ways to recognize strong performance. "A simple 'thank you,' or a pat on the back has a huge positive impact," said Colonel Murphy. "There are several other more formal options available," he added. 

Air Force Pamphlet 36-2861, "Civilian Recognition Guide," explains the many awards established since the Air Force became a separate service for recognizing outstanding accomplishments and achievements by Air Force civilians. 

The pamphlet covers honorary awards, incentive awards, awards sponsored by external organizations and even military medals that can be awarded to civilians. 

Air Force Instruction 36-1004, "Managing the Civilian Recognition Program," describes the incentive awards and how to nominate a civilian for them. 

"Formal awards for civilians come in the form of cash, time-off and honorary awards," said Colonel Murphy. "I strongly encourage supervisors to take the time to recognize our top performing civilian employees. Not only will this provide incentives to our civilian workforce, it also aids us in effectively meeting mission requirements." 

For more information about the Vance civilian recognition program, contact Ms. Coleman.