28 IS recognizes quarterly outstanding performers

  • Published
  • 655th ISR Wing Public Affairs

The 28th Intelligence Squadron recently recognized their outstanding performers this quarter. Categories of recognition included outstanding deployers, team contributions, individual contribution (unit training assembly) and individual contribution (outstanding deployer).

For outstanding deployers, the squadron recognized Senior Airman Jonathon Baldwin, 1st Lt. Benjamin Weldon and Staff Sgt. Ethyn Periman.

For team contributions, the squadron recognized Tech. Sgt. Tristan Wentworth, 28 IS weapons and tactics NCO in charge, and Staff Sgt. Abagail Fisher, 28 IS fusion analyst.

For this category, Wentworth is recognized for flying his last two sorties at the Weapon School Integration exercise at Nellis, Air Force Base, Nevada, completing his Advance Instructor Course at the 14th Weapons Squadron and becoming the first Weapons School graduate for the 28th IS. Additionally, Wentworth quickly reintegrated back with the 25th Intelligence Squadron, taking on the NCO in charge position of the Tactical Systems Operator (TSO) cryptologic training to cover an under-manned office, while also preparing for deployment. He was also tasked with providing inputs to the commanders Mission Essential Tasks List, helping squadron leadership guide the squadron to be prepared for future mission tasking relating to Great Power Competition (GPC). Wentworth also ensured the success of continued mission events by ensuring cryptologic training slots stayed filled and creating the initial checklist for TSO initial AC-130J training. As a result of his steadfast leadership, there has been no loss in cryptologic training, AC-130J integration training for TSOs has begun, and Reserve/Regular Air Force squadrons are becoming more prepared for the future fight. 

Staff Sgt. Abagail Fisher expertly supported Financial Intelligence efforts at NSA while serving on Military Personnel Appropriation (MPA) Man-day tour. Fisher produced two serialized reports on Priority 1 intelligence targets, greatly contributing to the Intelligence Community’s understanding of key economic issues. Additionally, she authored two reports of significant intelligence value, which were briefed at the Presidential level as well as to members of the Cabinet. Furthermore, Fisher skillfully analyzed 520 data lines as part of the financial intelligence data evaluation project. This led to the creation of five target profiles and the validation of raw information to enhance the IC’s knowledge base on adversary finance. 

For the Individual Contribution (during the UTA) category, the squadron recognized Senior Airman Sha’vona Hird, 28 IS aviation resource manager. While on Reserve Personnel Appropriation (RPA) tour, Hird dedicated 45 hours to support the Squadron Aviation Resource Management of Direct Support Operators and Career Enlisted Aviators. She inspected 720 task items from the Individual Training Summary reports of 186 aircrew members to ensure mission and combat readiness. Hird also input 130 training accomplishments allowing Career Enlisted Aviators to maintain flight and mission readiness requirements. Furthermore, she completed appropriate paperwork to certify eight crewmembers as physically qualified to perform flight and combat mission duties. While resolving two case management cases, Hird revised squadron continuity for future cases to enhance transparency and accuracy when initiating and processing flight pay. Additionally, Hird volunteered at the Hurlburt Field Freedom Fest event where she served 3,800 people and helped raise $41,000 from event sponsors. Hird attended an online leadership course from Harvard University to enhance her personal skills in exercising leadership. She has proven herself to be a highly valuable member of the 655th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Wing supporting Air Force Special Operations Command operations and the Air Force warfighting enterprise by performing tasks above her rank and exhibiting perseverance and consistent leadership across a broad range of responsibilities.

For the Individual Contribution (Outstanding Deployer), the squadron highlighted Staff Sgt. Ethyn Periman, who is currently deployed as a tactical systems operator (TSO). During this quarter, Periman flew 26 combat sorties, totaling 1,204 hours directly supporting Joint Task Force. During these flights, he helped identify 264 high-value individual positions and provided ISR for two Joint Task Force operations, resulting in one enemy detained in action. Furthermore, Periman was the lead trainer for five Operational Support Flyers which enhanced the Signals Intelligence Detachment’s capabilities and enabled 24/7 collection on commander priority intelligence requirements. In addition to optimizing his role as TSO, Periman was a force multiplier when he coordinated a critical ISR systems calibration, which guaranteed five aircraft were fully mission-capable for on-demand operations. In total, Periman has exemplified his duties as a TSO and served as an essential member of our deployed team, setting the example of what all our Airmen should strive for.

The 28th IS congratulates all its members for their continued support of the Air Force Reserve mission.