‘Airmen saluting Airmen’ – 305th AMW Annual Awards fast approaching Published Jan. 21, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Bekah Phy 305th Air Mobility Wing public affairs McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- The 305th Air Mobility Wing's 2008 Annual Awards Celebration will be held Jan. 30, 5:30 p.m., at The Club. Airmen and family members are encouraged to sign up by Jan. 23. "We don't have a way of giving our Airmen a performance bonus, but showing them our sincere appreciation for their service is vitally important," said Chief Master Sgt. John Gillette, 305th AMW command chief. "I want Airmen to know that it is important to strive to be the best and do their best, and that type of effort should not go unrecognized." Airmen who have performed well throughout the year will be recognized during the event. Units have nominated Airmen who go above and beyond, including those who have won quarterly award recognition in 2008. This year's theme is "Mission Excellence - Airmen Saluting Airmen." "I encourage Airmen to come show support for their fellow Airmen. The Airmen who are being recognized have been selected by Airmen just like themselves, and although this is an individual award, it takes an entire unit to uplift its Airmen," Chief Gillette said. " ... Families are also encouraged to attend. I know from my own experiences that my success would not be possible without the support of my family, and I'm sure it's the same for the award winners." The chief hopes every attendee will be able to identify with the award winners and say to themselves, "That could be me one day; I work hard, I do my best - I can be on that stage." The event will feature dinner choices, including beef, chicken, salmon or vegetarian lasagna. The cost is $23 for Club members and $25 for non-members. Military members may wear mess dress or semi-formal attire. Civilian attendees may wear evening gowns/pant suits or business suits. Airmen who would like to sign up should contact their first sergeant by Jan. 23.