MOS 15M, MQ-1 Unmanned Aircraft Repairer Awards

Meritorious service while serving as MQ-1 Unmanned Aircraft Repairer, 354th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 354th Maintenance Group, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska from XXXXXXXXX to XXXXXXXXX. During this period, Staff Sergeant Dwight McDonald demonstrated key leadership abilities while leading a nine member team providing critical oxygen supplies to 56 separate units, totaling over 200 aircraft. His direct oversight enabled 2,500 sorties and 5,500 combat flight hours during Exercise Red Flag Alaska 2022. Moreover, Sergeant McDonald's problem solving abilities were showcased when he quickly reacted to equipment shortfalls during a visiting coalition forces movement. His quick thinking established a nitrogen filling station, battery charging area, and safe storage facilities which enabled the completion of the Norwegian Air Force's MQ-1 cold weather operations testing. Further, Sergeant McDonald's keen attention to detail identified the need for and coordinated 17 MQ-1 system upgrades. His unmatched maintenance readiness and rapid response were key to completing all aircraft modifications 60 days ahead of schedule and cemented the group's 2022 recognition with the Secretary of Defense Field-level Aviation Maintenance Safety award. Staff Sergeant McDonald's extraordinary efforts and accomplishments during this period reflect credit upon himself, the 354th Maintenance Group and the United States Army.