Show-Me State Times

The 131st Bomb Wing has announced its Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2025. The announcement was made on Friday, January 3, 2025. These Airmen were acknowledged for their dedication to excellence and professionalism in their roles, setting a benchmark for their peers.

Command Chief Master Sergeant Jason Henke expressed pride in the achievements of all Airmen over the past year. "I’m extremely proud of all of our Airmen’s accomplishments this year," said Henke. "The competition for our Outstanding Airmen of the Year was intense, with outstanding efforts displayed across the entire wing. From home station to combat, our Airmen continue to crush the mission and prepare themselves for the future."

The honorees come from Whiteman Air Force Base in Knob Noster, Missouri, and Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Station in St. Louis. They include:

- Junior Enlisted Airman of the Year: Airman 1st Class Abigail McKinnon from the 131st Force Support Squadron

- Noncommissioned Officer of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Jacob Ellison from the 131st Operations Support Squadron

- Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year: Senior Master Sgt. Matt Lakin from the 239th Combat Communications Squadron

- First Sergeant of the Year: Master Sgt. Jake Noel from the 131st Civil Engineer Squadron

- Company Grade Officer of the Year: 1st Lieutenant Thomas Dissette from the 131st Medical Group

- Civilian of the Year: Mr. Ricky Clausing from the 131st Bomb Wing Staff Agencies

State-level competition winners are expected to be revealed later this year.

The 131st Bomb Wing is involved in missions with B-2 Spirit stealth bombers at Whiteman AFB and provides command and control support for US Indo-Pacific Command from Jefferson Barracks ANG Station in St. Louis. The unit ensures readiness to execute national defense tasks and is prepared to offer civil support across Missouri.