10th SFS Airman wins 'Tuskegee Airman of the Week' award at Balad

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Allison M. Boehm
  • 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq --  A security forces patroller deployed from the Air Force Academy's 10th Security Forces Squadron was named the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing's Tuskegee Airman of the Week for Nov. 22-28.

Staff Sgt. Audrina L. Corpuz was presented with an award and a commander's coin at the wing headquarters here Dec. 4.

"Sergeant Corpuz has not only has excelled as an Airman, but she's also accomplished great things off-duty," said Col. Luke Grossman, 332nd AEW vice commander. "Her efforts have proved to be an instrumental aspect of making Joint Base Balad a better place, as well as keeping us safe."

A security forces leader, Sergeant Corpuz coordinated three in-flight emergency responses with multiple base agencies. She directed the base fire department, cordoned the airfield and secured the area for the affected aircraft.

Sergeant Corpuz, who is on her second deployment, also directed 10 alarm responses, which helped guarantee the safety of more than 25,000 personnel.

"I am satisfied in my job knowing I provide a role in the transformation of the Iraqi nation," said Sergeant Corpuz. "We provide security and in doing so, we protect the personnel who support the mission of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Knowing I have a small role in the overall picture of Iraq is truly satisfying."

Sergeant Corpuz, deployed here from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., also served as the 332nd Expeditionary Security Forces Group co-chair for Director of Security Forces Brig. Gen. Jimmy McMillian's visit to Balad. General McMillian was the previous 10th Air Base Wing commander at the Academy.

Off-duty, the Brawley, Calif., native also completed two college courses, which earned her six credit hours toward both a bachelor's and Community College of the Air Force degree.

Master Sgt. Henry Adkins, the 332nd ESFS Bravo Flight chief and Sergeant Corpuz's supervisor, nominated her for the award.

"Sergeant Corpuz is an outstanding leader for Bravo Flight," Sergeant Adkins said. "She is one of our primary controllers for the joint defense operations center, and she also works as a sector supervisor. She serves as an outstanding mentor for her fellow Airmen."