Beale Airman recognized as ACC’s Financial Management Airman of the Year

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Bobby Cummings
  • 9th Reconnaissance WIng
Beale Air Force Base, Calif. --  One of Beale's finest has recently been recognized as Air Combat Command's 2013 Financial Management Airman of the Year.

Senior Airman Michaela Thaxton, 9th Comptroller Squadron special actions team lead, was selected based on her outstanding service, superior leadership, job performance, community involvement and personal achievements.

"I am extremely honored to receive such an esteemed award," Thaxton said. "However, I would not have been able to accomplish all I have without my fellow Airmen and the leadership appointed over me."

Thaxton's achievements include obtaining her from the Community College of the Air Force degree in December 2012. She was selected as Airman of the Quarter for the first quarter in 2013. She was promoted to senior airman below-the-zone and was involved in many volunteer opportunities including serving as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

According to the Ohio native, Airmen desiring an award at this level should pursue education outside the Air Force and strive to prepare themselves for positions they may hold in the future. Airmen need to be self-starters and have an interest in bettering themselves, she said.

"Airman Thaxton consistently performs at a non-commissioned officer level within our shop," said Tech. Sgt. Todd Hillibush, 9th Comptroller Squadron Financial Management Flight NCO in charge. "She is an innovative thinker and routinely develops processes which improve deficiencies."

Thaxton will be competing at the Air Force level to possibly be recognized further.

"I am proud to represent Beale, and I couldn't be more thankful for the support my leadership has provided me," Thaxton said. "It has been a very humbling experience."