LRS SNCO receives national military service award
6/14/2010 -- Air Force officials recognized a Nellis Air Force Base senior NCO as one of two recipients of the 2010 League of United Latin American Citizens Excellence in Military Service Award, June 7.
Senior Master Sgt. Limweshe D. Wright, vehicle management superintendent in the 99th Logistics Readiness Squadron and Maj. Omar Ebarb from U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt AFB, Neb., were selected for the award which honors service members who supported the DoD mission, overseas contingency operations or whose attributes best epitomized the qualities and the core values of their respective military service.
Currently deployed to Afghanistan at Camp Eggers, Sergeant Wright has been stationed at Nellis Air Force Base since 2006 and his experience during his previous deployment to Afghanistan contributed to his being recognized for the honor. He led vehicle support for 300 missions, in addition to serving as a convoy commander, armored tactical vehicle driver and M240B gunner. His actions as gunner were critical after an explosion killed his team commander and three others, earning him the Bronze Star and Air Force Combat Action Medal.
"I'm honored to win an award of this stature, and I never thought doing what I love and adore would bring this type of accolade," Sergeant Wright said. "I really enjoy serving my country, whether it be during war or helping out in the local communities."
Mr. Honolito Directo, the vehicle management flight chief at Nellis, and Mr. Kelly Keebler, the vehicle management section supervisor nominated Sergeant Wright for the award.
He credits their guidance and teaching as a key part of his success.
"Mr. Directo has granted me the opportunity to excel in key positions throughout the vehicle management flight," Sergeant Wright said. "Mr. Keebler is my mentor; His knowledge of the vehicle maintenance area is astounding."
Sergeant Wright has served in the Air Force since 1990, and reflects back on his experience with pride.
"I've been taught to lead from the front, follow or get out of the way," he said. "As a senior NCO I have direct influence and impact on the mission and the troops. I truly enjoy, love and cherish being in the Air Force."
The awards will be presented July 15 at the 81st Annual LULAC National Convention and Exposition in Albuquerque, N.M.
Air Force News contributed to this report.