ACC Safety earns Maj. Gen. Benjamin D. Foulois Memorial Award

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Nicholas Kehoe, National Commander of the Order of the Daedalians, presented the Air Combat Command Safety Directorate with the Maj. Gen. Benjamin D. Foulois Memorial Award here, April 2.  

The safety office earned the award for its exceptional flight mishap prevention program during fiscal year 2018.

“This incredible work by every Airman across our command supports our mission to deliver combat power to Combatant Commands across the globe,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Steven Owen, Air Combat Command safety director. “Safety begins with leadership; risk management improves mission success and helps us maintain awareness of potential safety issues.”

Foulois, the first U.S. Army pilot in 1908, was recognized for installing the first airplane seatbelt after a crash where he was almost thrown from the plane. In honor of his accomplishment, the Air Force chief of staff presents the award to the major command with the best flight safety record each year.

ACC’s safety office directed flight safety programs for the Air Force’s lead combat force provider, which safeguarded 1,200 aircraft and $50 billion in combat assets. The directorate also reduced aviation Class A mishaps by 40 percent while coordinating more than 400 repairs from mishap investigations.

This is ACC’s second time being presented with this prestigious award since its switch from its predecessor, Tactical Air Command, which earned the award five times.

“Commanders are establishing a safety culture that enables every Airman at every level to identify hazards and mitigate risk,” Owen said.  “Moving forward, the key to keeping a successful flight safety program is ensuring each squadron member understands the importance of their role and how it contributes to the ACC mission.”