71st MDG Amn named Air Force aerospace physiology Airman of the Year

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Frank Casciotta
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  A 71st Medical Operations Squadron senior airman was selected as the aerospace physiology Airman of the year for the Air Force.

Senior Airman Bill Ensrud was presented the award by Col. John J. Menozzi, the 71st Flying Wing vice commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Mark Aman, the 71st FTW command chief, in January.

Nominees are judged on three areas: job performance, community involvement and personal improvement.

Since Ensrud arrived at Vance in April 2012 he has volunteered more than 1,000 hours of community service to the Boy Scouts of America and a Christian organization called K-Life and he is also is pursuing his master's degree in kinesiology.

"I never thought I would be selected for such a prestigious award," said Ensrud a Chico, Calf., native. "I can't emphasize enough how much support I received from my leadership and the other Airmen in my office. I wouldn't be where I am now without them."

As an aerospace physiology technician it's Ensrud's job to train student pilots in-flight and ground egress procedures, the importance to relying on aircraft instruments, how to use life support equipment, cope with high-altitude conditions through the use of a hypobaric chamber and proper procedures for landing after a parachute fall.

In 2013, Ensrud trained more than 700 student pilots on these techniques and procedures.

"He's always sharp, well-spoken and courteous," said Tech. Sgt. Iyendo Manchester, Ensrud's former supervisor. Manchester is now stationed at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. "Whether you're an airman or a general Ensrud will always treat you the same way. I haven't seen anyone with such intense focus. He's the kind of guy who always has the end in mind and does not let obstacles get in his way."

Ensrud plans to stay in the Air Force until he retires - he hopes as an officer.

"I'm trying to commission," said Ensrud. "I believe my education, tangible skills and leadership would be of best use to the Air Force in an officer capacity."