Freedom Wing officer recognized for playing it safe

  • Published
  • By Capt. Allison Ecung
  • 514th Air Mobility Wing
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst --  One of the most important things we do as members of the 514th Air Mobility Wing is take care of each other, both on and off duty. The high operations tempo and budget cuts during the past decade often necessitated performing more duties with less personnel.

During 2013 the 514th flew over 11,100 hours of flying time in the KC-10 and C-17, and while safety is one of those things that is always in the back of our minds it usually only comes to the forefront when something goes wrong. This time something is definitely right and it's Lt Col Dean Owens.

Owens was presented with the 2013 Air Force Reserve Command Safety Officer of the Year Award for his commitment to safety excellence in the wing. As adjunct instructor for the Air Force Safety Center, he trained safety instructors from the reserves, national guard, and active duty.

Lt Col Owens was selected by the Federal Aviation Administration as a member of their safety team and as a top participator by the Regional Administrator. He was also named Director of Operations and Safety for the tanker Large Force Exercise, which concluded with 100% mission effectiveness.

Flightline safety is critical to mission effectiveness but personnel should also ensure offices are risk free as well. Although many Air Force members work in office environments, we don't normally associate these areas as potentially hazardous. It's important to be aware of potential safety hazards even in a seemingly secure environment. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, falls are the most common cause of office injuries followed by ergonomic issues. To avoid accidents in your office take the time to clear boxes and clutter out of working areas and use appropriate ladder safety procedures. Avoid ergonomic injuries by adjusting your desk chair and computer screen to ensure your feet rest firmly on the ground.

Lt Col Owens accomplishments should be an inspiration and example to all airmen of the importance of safety in our wing. When asked how he feels about this honor Owens stated, "My name might be on the award but the 514th made this happen."