Among the 2024 People and Organizations that Shined the Air Force, the 51st Air Control Squadron was honored with an award in the Combat Power Development category for maintaining a tight air surveillance posture and supporting the flight of our air power.
Air Force Chief of Staff Lee Young Soo hosted an awards ceremony on the 3rd in the conference room of Air Force Headquarters in Gyeryongdae, where three individuals and four teams were chosen in seven categories: Development of Combat Power, Development of Organizational Operations, New Information and Knowledge, Service and Sacrifice, Sports and Culture, Collaboration, Special, and given plaques and prize money.
The 51st Air Control Squadron, which clinched the Combat Power Development award, operates the E-737 airborne early warning and control aircraft. The Squadron was evaluated as having significantly contributed to the Air Force’s practical air response capabilities by maintaining an air surveillance posture and monitoring and detecting enemy cruise missiles.
To expand the scope of the Air Force’s missions and capabilities, the Air Force explained that the 51st Squadron completed missions like aerial surveillance and communication relay when our air forces were deployed or returned overseas. Examples of these missions include participating in the Singapore and Philippines air shows, the multinational exercise Pitch Black, and the operation to transport Korean citizens to Lebanon.
The Media Contents Division of the Air Force Headquarters Public Relations Office was selected for the Organizational Operation Development category. The division’s innovative approach to public outreach included producing viral content such as “BOMB Yanggang,” a parody of singer Bibi’s hit “Bam Yang Gang,” “Memories of the Late Pro,” which showcased Taurus missile live-fire exercises, and “Looking for the Phantom,” a tribute to the retiring F-4 Phantom fighter jet.
Officer Baek Seung Ik from the 82nd Aircraft Maintenance Wing was recognized in the New Knowledge and Information category for his contributions to quality management. The Sacrifice and Service Award went to Staff Sergeant Jeon Daeyoung of the 11th Fighter Wing, who demonstrated exceptional bravery by apprehending a hit-and-run suspect and turning them over to local law enforcement.
Furthermore, the National Human Rights Commission’s Defense Veterans Affairs Civil Affairs Division was chosen for the Cooperation category, and the Air Force team, the Ministry of National Defense Military Cooking Contest winner, was selected for the Sports and Culture category. Booyoung Co., Ltd. chairman Lee Jung Geun received recognition as the Special Category winner.
During the ceremony, Chief of Staff Gen. Lee Young Soo addressed the awardees, stating, “Your dedication and excellence have made 2024 a landmark year for the Air Force.” He emphasized, “As we continue to build a formidable and advanced air force in partnership with the American people, I call on all Air Force personnel to maintain their commitment to excellence, and I urge our external partners to sustain their invaluable support for our mission.”