Lackland Air Force Base, Texas –
He can now add the 2005 Pararescue Awards to his growing list of impressive and prestigious awards.
Master Sgt. Doug Isaacks, 342nd Training Squadron combat training flight chief, was recently named Pararescue Senior NCO of the Year by Air Force officials. He will be presented the award along with three other combat rescue officers and pararescuemen of the year during ceremonies in September in Las Vegas, Nev.
Sergeant Isaacks' achievements and leadership abilities are nothing new, according to those who know him in the 342nd TRS.
"Sergeant Isaacks is a top-notch troop, and easily one of the best I've ever worked with," said Maj. Tony Capobianco, 342nd TRS commander. "It's easy to see how he'd be chosen for such an award."
The Air Force recognizes four combat rescue officers and pararescuemen each year to represent the career field. Sergeant Isaacks was named the Pararescue NCO of the Year for his leadership in primary duties and his additional contributions to the squadron mission as commandant of the Pararescue/Combat Rescue Officer Indoctrination Course.
"Doug Isaacks stands out as one of the best senior NCOs I've worked with in my 16-year military career," said 1st Lt. Kevin Kirby, assistant director of operations with the 342nd TRS. "He always sets the example, is quick on his feet and displays 100 percent integrity. Without a doubt, he deserves recognition as the Pararescue Senior NCO of the Year."
The 13-year Air Force veteran, who has won both the 2003 United States Air Forces in Europe command-level Pararescue Awards and been named one of the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year in 2005, said he was "very surprised" to hear he had won the award.
When asked who he credited for his successes, the master sergeant had a long list of supporters.
"I credit the guys I work with, the other instructors, and of course the leadership for thinking that I'm worthy of this award," Sergeant Isaacks said. "I would also like to thank my wife and two sons for supporting me all this time through deployments and long hours at work. This is one of the reasons I've been able to receive this award."
Sergeant Isaack's plans for the future are simple.
"I'm looking forward to spending time with the family, and continuing my job as long as I'm needed here," he said.