Team McChord Airman wins Colonel Gail Halvorsen Award

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Keoni Chavarria
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Tech. Sgt. Nathan Carlson, 62nd Aerial Port Squadron senior information controller, was awarded the 2014 Colonel Gail Halvorsen Air Force Outstanding Air Transportation Individual of the Year Award, July 9.

According to the Airlift Tanker Association, the award is given to an outstanding Air Transportation Airman for sustained excellence in aerial port operations.

Carlson was selected for his work with the 62nd APS for his accomplishments and the impact he had contributed toward his squadron.

"Everything Carlson did was above par. He was constantly seeking a way to improve himself and ways to make the organization better," said Master Sgt. Robert Code, 62nd Aerial Port Squadron air terminal operations center superintendent.

"It was my honor to nominate Carlson for this prestigious award and it was rewarding to see him get recognized," said Code.

Under Carlson's management of the command and control system on four nuclear missions, he ensured that the 62nd Airlift Wing had zero findings and received the highest possible Nuclear Surety Inspection rating.

While Carlson was busy on the job, he was also involved with his squadron and within his community.

Carlson served as the president of the 62nd APS Booster Club and helped organize events to raise funds for their squadron. During the Josh Fueston Memorial Swim relay, he led a three-member team to raise money and awareness for the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder.

During a recent deployment, Carlson also saved an American's life by putting out a fire, applying a tourniquet on their leg and carrying them to safety.

For his ability to schedule 5,000 tons of cargo and 4,000 passengers on 88 missions, Carlson also earned the Bagram Top III Council award.

For Carlson's leadership, it was no competition putting him in for the award with all of his accomplishments.

"Carlson's positive attitude, high energy level and continuous drive to exceed standards separated him from the pack," said Patrick Fleisman, 62nd APS flight chief of combat readiness and resources.

"He is a well-rounded leader, an air transportation expert and a tremendous asset to the Air Force," he added.