JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
Senior Master Sgt. Jermaine King is the 2022 Air Education and Training Command National Public Service Award winner and will go on to represent AETC at the Air Force level.
The award is given to honor those who have made outstanding contributions to their community – both military and local – and King has done some impressive things.
When asked what set him apart from the other contestants, it was no surprise when King indicated that it was not him personally, but his team, which made him special.
"I think what sets Joint Base San Antonio apart is the team's effort to help each other out, and it's not really me,” King said. “Corny as it may sound, it is literally being able to bring these people together to help other people that makes us different.”
It’s clear that a passion for education also informs his work. As the 502d Air Base Wing Career Assistance Advisor, King has been instrumental in creating a virtual professional development program. With his team, he has delivered 605 courses to over 15,000 military and civilian personnel.
However, King was not always so impassioned by education.
“I wasn't that person who grew up believing that education was important, and school was not my thing in the beginning,” King said. “But then one day it just clicks.
“Now I am pursuing my doctorate, and it’s probably the best thing I’ve ever done in my career,” he said. “It’s certainly the thing I am most proud of.”
King has also been exemplary in his ability to increase awareness and inclusion, and his desire to provide an example for others resulted in the creation of the Joint Base San Antonio African American Observance Council.
This desire to recognize the accomplishments of others is a key theme for King, and it ties to another of his core beliefs – the importance of meeting the needs of others.
“One of my core motivations is looking at what every demographic needs,” he said, “and trying to make sure I look at every angle when considering that.”
As a young Airman, King said he was unaware of the aid programs the Air Force had to offer.
“I try to remember that I was that young Airman that needed guidance,” King said. “Now, as a senior noncommissioned officer, I go back to them with this information that I didn’t know, and hopefully it helps their families out.”
In a congratulatory announcement, 502nd ABW and JBSA Commander Brig. Gen. Caroline M. Miller said she is very impressed by the talents throughout the wing and continued efforts to “Fight Through.”
“Congratulations again to Senior Master Sgt. Jermaine A. King and best of luck at the Air Force Level competition!” she said. “We would also like to thank the supervisors and leaders who took the time to recognize your service member, It is very much appreciated,”
Those interested in taking advantage of the professional development opportunities offered by King and his team may visit the course registration site at https://teamup.com/ks9cy211bm6t4mc42z.