459 ARW Reservist honored by ROA

  • Published
  • By Maj. Tim Smith
  • 459th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. --  Master Sgt. Thersha Lewis, 459th Civil Engineering Squadron here, was nominated for the Reserve Officer's Association Spotlight award which recognizes the proud men and women who serve in the reserve components.

Lewis, along with other nominees from the armed services, was honored at the ROA congressional breakfast on March 17 during its ROA Leaders Week.

Regarding her nomination, Lewis said "I feel I am blessed and highly favored to have folks in my chain of command that took time out to recognize me."

Her chain of command submitted her for the nomination. The explosive ordnance disposal program manager expertly handles the day-to-day operations for the squadron, coordinating requests from higher headquarters and the wing.  And she's heavily relied upon for her ability to resolve personnel issues.

Her supervisor, Maj. Luke Stumme, said "her undiluted focus on her program had significant improvement in recruiting and training."  Lewis is also noted for her preplanning and coordination with other agencies, and the attention she gave to addressing past inspection write ups. 

Some of her accomplishments were related to the Comprehensive Airman Fitness program. She introduced, implemented, and fortified healthy practices to ensure members maintain wellness and wellbeing, on and off duty. And she hired three EOD-qualified personnel. Plus, she manages a host of additional duties.

Though she did not take home the Spotlight, her impressive accomplishments placed her in the running against personnel from all services for the national level award.