York claims third command award Published Jan. 23, 2007 By SSgt Amanda Mills Public Affairs Vance Air Force Base, Okla. -- Air Education and Training Command recently awarded the 71st Security Forces Squadron information security civilian as the Civilian of the Year for 2004. Regina York said she was surprised she won the award, even with this being the third time she's done it. "I work hard and I guess it's showing," she said. "I've earned excellent ratings from past (Operational Readiness Inspections), and I'm active with the community on base. One inspector even told me to slow down. I've been on the go since I got here, and it's nice to know my efforts are seen. I'm extremely pleased and proud, and also very thankful to my commander for caring enough to give recognition for efforts and good performance. Those packages are a lot of work, and he took the time to submit my name. So, all I have left to say is 'hooah!'" From Oct. 1, 2003 to Sept. 30, 2004, Ms. York processed more than 800 security clearances, according to her award nomination. She enforced a "catch 'em in training" program for incoming Airmen, ensuring 100 percent readiness for their new assignments. She also worked with the military personnel flight to scrutinize security clearance requirements for more than 450 graduating student pilots. Ms. York coordinated clearances with Tinker Air Force Base's naval detachment for assigned Navy and U.S. Marine Corps personnel, according to the nomination. She streamlined the National Agency Check process, resulting in the completion of 200 contract employee background checks. She also developed an electronic personnel security questionnaire tracker, maintaining a database of more than 2,000 security files. Ms. York is active in the Vance Community Chapel, advising the installation chaplain for Catholic faith programs, donating time to assisting at Single Individual Gourmet Meal Opportunities and acting as one of two government purchase card holders for the chapel. She is also enrolled in Embry Riddle University and is working toward a Bachelor of Arts in liberal arts. "This award says 'She is awesome,'" said Capt Robert Rossi, 71st Security Forces Squadron commander. "I'm very proud of Regina for consistently exceeding the standard. She's extremely hard working and well deserving of the award. She knows her job better than anyone else and knows how to do it well. Winning the award for a third time is proof that she is consistently an outstanding performer. It is also consistent with the fact that Regina is extremely involved in base and community activities outside of work. She does it all!"