Fort Irwin Airman wins Barstow community award Published Feb. 3, 2010 By Airman Cynthia A. Haughton Nellis Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- Staff Sgt. Nicholas Race, assigned to the 12th Combat Training Squadron at Fort Irwin, Calif., was selected as Airman of the Year by the Barstow Chamber of Commerce. Sergeant Race supports Green Flag West and National Training Center rotational exercises as the noncommissioned officer in charge of radio maintenance for the 12th CTS. He manages over $2 million in communications equipment and is responsible for the maintenance and repair of 11 vehicle communications pallets and 46 portable radios. During the past year, Sergeant Race donated time to raise food and money for 130 families in the Fort Irwin and Barstow community. He has also donated clothing to those less fortunate and invested time in today's youth by volunteering as a judge for the California Cadet State Drill Competition. "I would like to thank the community of Barstow for giving me the honor they did, but I feel that what they have given to me is more than I can ever give back to them," Sergeant Race said. "I am proud to be a part of their community." While supporting Green Flag West, Sergeant Race has earned an associate degree in electronic communications technology and a bachelor's degree in professional aeronautics. Sergeant Race is currently pursuing his master's degree in management and leadership. The Fort Irwin and Barstow communities have been home to Sergeant Race and his wife, Silvia, since March 2006.
