By PTE John Wellfare
FEWER
nominations have been made for Air Force awards and scholarships
this year, with coordination staff planning a publicity drive
for future awards periods.
Although nominations have been received in all award categories,
the numbers are down significantly on previous years. Honours
and Awards Coordinator Flight Lieutenant Dean Bruce said the shortage
of nominations was probably related to the recent high operational
tempo.
“We feel that the operational tempo is the cause – that units
have been too busy [to discuss nominations],” he said.
“What we would like to see is unit and squadron commanders recognising
those people who have done extremely well throughout the year
and putting them through.
“They may not be successful, but at least it lets them know that
they’ve been looked at.
“While the numbers are fewer, the quality of nominee that has
come through has been extremely high. “There is the operational
focus in that, of course, but they’re not forgetting those that
are left back in a supporting role.
“The Chief of Air Force has the unfortunate job of having to narrow
[the nominations] down to one individual or one unit.”
Nominations have already closed for this year’s awards, which
will be announced on March 31, and presented on May 12. But FLTLT
Bruce hoped to encourage more nominations for next year.
“Unfortunately
we can’t really extend the deadline,” he said. “Sitting over the
top of all of this we have the Directorate of Honours and Awards.
“They have very strict guidelines because their review process
is very time constraining. “What we would like to see is the units
being more aware of what awards are out there and recognising
more of their people.”
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