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Spokane community named best in AMC

  • Published
  • By Capt. Jason McCree
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. - On behalf of the City of Spokane and Greater Spokane Incorporated, Col. Scott Hanson, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander, received notification of Spokane's selection as the 2006 Abilene Trophy winner, during Phoenix Rally at MacDill AFB, Fla., April 12, 2007.

The Abilene Trophy, sponsored by the Abilene, Texas, Chamber of Commerce, recognizes the community that provides the most outstanding support to an Air Mobility Command unit.

"It was truly an outstanding year of support for the troops of Fairchild," said Cheri L. Drysdale, Abilene Chamber of Commerce Director of Military Affairs and Special Projects. "Of note are several programs including Operation Spokane Heroes ... and their dynamic Honorary Commanders program."

A selection committee from the Abilene Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee judged entries from communities outside six AMC bases with final approval by Air Mobility Command senior leadership.

"There was no doubt that Spokane was head and shoulders above all others," said Gray Bridwell, who participated on the selection committee and announced Spokane's selection at Phoenix Rally in front of 100+ guard, reserve and active-duty wing Air Force commanders. "Everything from the community's governmental endorsements, to its marketing material made it clear that Fairchild is a major part of everyday life in Spokane."

"I am excited by Spokane's selection as our command's most outstanding community," Colonel Hanson said. "This is well deserved recognition for the patriots who champion great programs that support our Professional Expeditionary Airmen."

Community leaders agreed with the commander.

"It was definitely an honor for our community to be selected for this award," said Rich Hadley, Greater Spokane Incorporated President & CEO. "The support that we've seen from our community has been overwhelming. This recognition demonstrates our strong relationship with the men and women of Fairchild Air Force Base."