Airman's core value in service deemed 'outstanding'

MINNEAPOLIS-SAINT PAUL JOINT AIR RESERVE STATION, Minn. -- Tech Sgt. Katie Morsch earned the 133rd Airlift Wing Outstanding NCO of the Year here, recently selected from more than a dozen nominees.

The outstanding Airman of the year program recognizes the state's top senior NCOs, NCOs, Airmen, first sergeants and honor guard managers reviewed for state and national consideration.

"I am extremely honored and very proud to represent my unit," said Morsch, the wing staff's administrative specialist.

The review board considered her leadership, job performance, self-improvement and base or community involvement.

"I appreciate that the OAY selection is based on these key areas, and I believe that my dedication to expanding and growing in all of those areas was beneficial," said Morsch.

Morsch said that she hoped her military service, volunteerism and work with the Peace Corps and the AmeriCorps exemplified the Air Force's Service Before Self Core Value, which she holds most dear.

"Service before self is something that I live by every day," said Morsch. "I think that my service to others makes me a better person and helps me to fulfil the other core values of Integrity and Excellence [in All That We Do]. Serving others taught me a lot about myself and allowed me to learn so much from, and about, the people I have been fortunate to work with."

Morsch worked at an outreach clinic's admission gate in Ghana, Africa, during a 2006 humanitarian mission. "It allowed me to see the amazing ways that my civilian passion can merge with my military service," said Morsch.

She said that the experience changed her trajectory in military and civilian life. "It gave me the confidence to apply for the Peace Corps and continue my passion for exploring other cultures," said Morsch.

Morsch said that her husband and family - who attended her promotions and award ceremonies as well as encouraged her service - allowed her to exceed expectations.

"Family support ... really makes my service possible. Because of [my husband's] support at home and at the Guard I am able to focus on what I need to do to be a successful Guard member."