SNCOs receive top AETC-level awards Published Nov. 28, 2006 By Tech. Sgt. M. Davis Public Affairs Vance Air Force Base, Okla. -- Two Vance senior master sergeants not only lead their troops, but lead the way for other senior NCOs in their career fields, since they received command-level awards recently. Senior Master Sgt. Don Sibble, 71st Military Personnel Flight superintendent, was recently named the 2004 Outstanding Air Education and Training Command Personnel Superintendent of the Year, and Senior Master Sgt. Mark Aman, 71st Comptroller Squadron superintendent, was named the 2004 AETC Financial Management Superintendent of the Year. For Sergeant Sibble, his toughest challenge was his deployment to Kuwait last year in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. While deployed, he processed more than 5,000 Air Force members on 135 missions from Iraq and Kuwait. He identified, tracked and coordinated U.S. Special Operations movements for individuals transiting through the area of operation. Sergeant Sibble also submitted joint movement requests, led convoys and performed armed escort for Air Force members deploying to Iraq. "I spent a lot of long hours with the Army training on many new processes and taking care of people from every military service," said the 23-year senior NCO from Titusville, Pa. "It was unfamiliar territory for me, but it was a challenge to learn new things and after three and a half months it was a great experience." Although he wasn't around to mentor his troops back at Vance, he was proud of them. "The individuals in the flight did a great job of stepping in and taking care of the mission for those who deployed," he said. "They really stepped up to the tasks and got everything done with minimum manning." Capt. Devin Washington, 71st MPF chief, wasn't surprised about Sergeant Sibble's award. "Our superintendent is the backbone of the flight," he said. "What sets him apart is his ability to see the big picture, set goals and provide a tenacious, unwavering leadership style to direct the troops." Serving as the 71st Comptroller Squadron superintendent, Senior Master Sgt. Mark Aman rewrote quality assurance operating instructions, fulfilling the squadron's needs while exceeding the Air Force's expectations. He incorporated nine Operational Readiness Inspection best practices, enhancing squadron effectiveness and improving customer service. Sergeant Aman also audited 1,846 pay documents, while providing technicians training to prevent errors -- preventing $23,400 over payments. "Turning inexperience into experience was challenging," said the 20-year senior master sergeant from North Canton, Ohio. "With the help of our NCOs, we were very successful." Although he had many noteworthy accomplishments last year, Sergeant Aman said it wouldn't have been possible without the people in his squadron. "This award is a direct reflection of the efforts and success of everyone in the unit." In mid-June, he will be on his way to Fort Bliss, Texas, to attend U.S. Army Sergeant Major Academy. hy? "We all can expect to work with the Army, Navy or Marines some time in our career," he said. "I'm trying to get some insight on Army operations." 1st Lt. Dionne Atkins, Financial Services Flight commander, was proud to see him win. "Sergeant Aman is one of the best leaders we have in the squadron," she said. "He's very professional and is an expert in his field. His next unit will be getting one of the Air Force's finest senior NCOs." Senior master sergeants Aman and Sibble are currently competing at Air Force level.