911th Air Refueling Squadron maintainer awarded Bronze Star Published July 8, 2011 By Staff Sgt. Terrica Jones 916th Public Affairs Office SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- A squadron maintenance superintendent was presented with the Bronze Star Medal during a ceremony here June 21. The Bronze Star is awarded to an individual who, while serving in any capacity with the armed forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguishes themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service. Col. Lenny J. Richoux, commander, 6th Air Mobility Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, presented the award to Senior Master Sgt. Dallas Turner, 911th Air Refueling Squadron, which is part of the 6th AMW and operates as the active duty associate to the 916th Air Refueling Wing here. Senior Master Sgt. Turner distinguished himself apart from his comrades with brave and praiseworthy achievement and services during his tour in Afghanistan in which he led 48 air advisors to mentor 400 Afghan Airmen in a combat zone. His leadership enabled several aircraft to fly 6,000 training and combat sorties and 5,000 flight hours resulting in an Afghan Air Force record flying year while suppressing insurgent actions. Part of his mission included developing the next generation of professionally competent Afghan Air Force maintainers. While deployed in Afghanistan he oversaw the Afghan Air Force's strategic manpower plan. He managed 1,000 positions spanning 15 specialties. Sergeant Turner shared his gratitude with the room of officers, enlisted, and guests, and reiterated the importance of family in every Airman's life when they are deployed. Sergeant Turner is the third 911th Air Refueling Squadron Airman to earn the Bronze Star in recent years.