Arctic Warrior awarded DOD munitions honor

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jared Marquis
  • 3rd Wing Public Affairs
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  The Department of Defense recently recognized an Airman here for significant contributions to the sustainment, beddown, and/or operational capability of AIM-9X for the 3rd Wing. 

Staff Sgt. Wayne Zuiderhof, 3rd Equipment Maintenance Squadron, was selected as the 2007 AIM-9X Cutting Edge Award winner for 2007 due to his "management, maintenance and drive to maintain an $18.7 million stockpile and constantly improve our nation's newest missile," according to the award package. 

"Sergeant Zuiderhof is directly involved with every aspect of the AIM-9X at the 3rd Wing," said Capt. Lupe Gutierrez, 3rd EMS Munitions Flight commander. "His flawless management of missiles in both the Combat Ammunition System and the Tactical Missile Records System ensures accountability of these national assets while providing real-time visibility to war-planners." 

According to Sergeant Zuiderhof, the award came as a surprise when it was announced at a maintenance banquet last month. 

"I was completely amazed, I had no idea I would ever be recognized with that type of award," said the 10-year Air Force veteran. 

"For it to be announced like that was completely amazing, my spouse was there and it was a huge surprise to us all. It was a great honor." 

Sergeant Zuiderhof readily shares this accolade with his team. 

"I credit the hard work of everyone that helps me in the daily maintenance," he said. "I can't complete any maintenance without the assistance and support of my team. From hazmat, tools and manpower to guidance from MAJCOM and equipment specialists it all plays a role in getting the mission done. We have the honor to work with the top of the line missile systems on a daily basis." 

Sergeant Zuiderhof's nomination and subsequent selection was not a surprise to his leadership. 

"Wayne is one of the sharpest maintainers I have ever met in my 18-year career," Capt. Gutierrez said. "He is a true professional who inspires his Airmen, always leads by example and always from the front. Wayne has tackled every challenge with zeal and professionalism and he has earned the complete confidence, trust and respect from the entire munitions community. 

"Sergeant Zuiderhof's accomplishments represent a commitment to excellence in all he does and he is truly an outstanding example of how he has helped make the 3rd Wing the 'World's Finest'," the captain said.