Freedom Wing awarded 2012 Air Force Outstanding Unit award Published Aug. 22, 2013 By Senior Airman Chelsea Smith 514th Air Mobility Wing public affairs JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST -- Congratulations are in order for members of the Freedom Wing as the wing was one of only 14 Air Force Reserve wings recognized for meritorious service as a recipient of the 2012 Air Force Outstanding Unit award. The recognition is given by the Secretary of the Air Force to units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. The award covers achievements during a two-year time period. "This award is a testament to all of the phenomenal mission-focused people working to support our operations" said Col. Michael Underkofler, 514th AMW commander. "We're a large wing, Air Force Reserve Command's fifth largest, with many moving parts and different missions. I'm continually impressed by our reservists' spirit of volunteerism to deploy at a moment's notice. You name the operation and I bet we've had a reservist from the wing supporting it." During the award period, the 514th AMW amassed more than 25,000 total flying hours, which included more than 14,200 hours in fiscal year 2012. This was the highest amount flown by any wing in the Air Force Reserve Command. In an incredible display of volunteerism, 866 wing members, to include the Commander, deployed in support of critical operations to include New Dawn, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom amongst other operations. The 514th Air Mobility Wing also executed a mission of historical significance by repatriating the remains of "Chow-hound," a famous B-17 Flying Fortress, with dignity and honor. In addition to all the operational accomplishments, the 514th AMW closed out fiscal year 2012 with the highest overall retention rate of personnel within the 36 AFRC wings. Similarly, the wing bested all the other Reserve wings in the total number of decorations approved for its members. "Our wing has always been successful and continues to do great things," said Col. Jonathan Spare, 514th AMW vice commander. "What will fuel our continued success are the people, their amazing attitudes and their efforts. Moving forward, we will continue to capture the wing's accomplishments." The AFOU award was created in 1954 as the first independent Air Force award.