Communications Airman Receives Army Achievement Medal

Within the first couple weeks of being assigned to the 379th Expeditionary Communications Squadron Focal Point here, U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Sara Bonilla was recognized for her devotion to duty.

Bonilla received the Army Achievement Medal for doing what she says was just her job, although it was a job well done.

With a bright smile and eyes, Bonilla said she was surprised to learn she was being put in for the award by the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, here.

“I called to tell my brother, who was in the Army, when I found out,” said Bonilla. “It was shocking to find out I was getting it, because I was just doing what I’m supposed to.”

The responsibilities of the Airmen assigned to the focal point range from coordinating maintenance actions, building user accounts, resolving technical computer problems, to up channeling issues that may be out of their control and require advanced actions.

These Airmen ensure the information for more than nine thousand Service members and coalition partners is disseminated to the correct agencies for timely resolutions.

Bonilla, a Bridgeport, Connecticut native, is a client systems technician deployed from the 99th Communications Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, and she came here with an open mind for the new duties ahead of her.

“Within days of being assigned to the CFP she demonstrated exceptional competence and professionalism,” said Master Sgt. Tanya Dacosta-Hills, 379th ECS Client Service Center section chief. “Her attention to detail and dedication has brought numerous systems back into operation.”

Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Cureton, 379th ECS shift supervisor, echoed Dacosta-Hills’ remarks.

“She goes the extra mile when completing her work,” said Cureton. “With customer service, which is what we thrive on, she makes sure customers leave with a warm and fuzzy feeling.”

Bonilla created, routed and processed 24 communications requests for the same unit who put her in for the award.

What may be to some, a small task in answering a phone, it meant more to the Soldiers of the 108th ADA. With her help, the Soldiers were able to use computer systems that had been inoperable for multiple weeks.

Chief Master Sgt. Ruel Rafi, 379th ECS superintendent, said it is an honor to be on a team with an Airman such as Bonilla.

“She is an absolute joy to work with,” said Rafi. “She works hard and tackles all assignments with dedication and a charming smile.”

“It seems that nothing gets to her because she always has a sunny disposition,” said Rafi. ”Her attitude motivates and lifts people’s spirits.”  

Reflecting back, Bonilla said this award is quite an accomplishment for her.

“I didn’t realize what it truly meant to get the award,” said Bonilla. “My first sergeant explained that I am the first Airman he has known in his 17 years of service to get an award from another service and I am humbled and honored to have gotten the recognition.”