Aviano Airman takes STEPS in the right direction

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Mercedeskimble L. Crossland
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Performing in an exceptional manor is how one former Aviano Staff Sergeant earned her latest stripe.

Technical Sergeant Marilyn Landers was honored at the 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron commander's call February 25 by Brig. Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., 31st Fighter Wing commander, and Major Jamaal Mays, 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron commander, under the Stripes for Exceptional Performers Program.

"My heart was racing, it was so awesome and I was completely surprised," said Sergeant Landers, a native of Chambersburg, Penn. "I didn't have a clue."

Sergeant Landers has been at Aviano since 2007; she has been recognized for her excellence and holds such accolades as the Air Combat Command Regional Supply Squadron Professional Provider of the Year, Senior Airman Below the zone and Headquarters Air Combat Command Logistics Directorate Airman of the Quarter.

"Though my career I've pushed myself to be the best I could be," she said. "Be the best that you can and be a positive role model for everyone below you."

She says that she hopes to have accomplished a few things within the next five years, such as earning the rank of Master Sergeant and completing her Master's Degree. "Those are my goals for right now."