Traditional reservist named first sergeant of the year Published July 9, 2008 Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Air Force has selected Master Sgt. Jeffrey Gray as the winner of the 2008 First Sergeant of the Year award. Sergeant Gray, a traditional Reservist, serves as 1st Sgt., 328th Airlift Squadron, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, N.Y. Sergeant Gray meticulously managed and cared for more than 1000 Airmen from 20 remote locations while deployed to Afghanistan. His outstanding leadership ability and unwavering work ethic ensured the safe completion of a unique Air Force mission charged with the provincial reconstruction, security, and training of local Afghan national army personnel in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. His sincere concern for the welfare of his personnel directly resulted in the flawless performance of his unit during the rigors of war. The Air Force established the First Sergeant of the Year Award in1985 to recognize the important contributions and leadership qualities exhibited by Air Force members in the First Sergeant special duty career field. Nominees are considered in the areas of leadership and job performance in their primary duty, significant self-improvement, and base or community involvement. The Air Force Sergeants Association will present the award to Sergeant Gray during its annual convention honors banquet this August in San Antonio, Texas. For more information or media inquiries, contact the Niagara Falls ARS Public Affairs Office at (716) 236-2138.