NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR – In a region known for its unique local expressions, sometimes actions speak louder than any “y’all” or “fixin’ to.” Tech. Sgt. Christine Norman, an Arkansas Air National Guardsman, has recently proven just that, earning the prestigious Air Force’s enlisted staff-level Force Support Reserve Component NCO of the Year award. Her recognition highlights a year of outstanding service and dedication within the Arkansas Air National Guard.
Assigned to the Arkansas Air National Guard headquarters at Camp Joseph T. Robinson in North Little Rock, Tech. Sgt. Norman’s selection for this honor was based on a comprehensive evaluation of her 2020 achievements. Her mission accomplishments, unwavering focus on serving her customers, and exceptional leadership and team-building skills all contributed to this significant accolade.
“Christine possesses an incredibly deep understanding of Air Force and Air National Guard personnel regulations,” stated Col. Paul Jara, Arkansas Air National Guard director of staff. “However, what truly sets her apart is her relentless pursuit of knowledge, constantly expanding her expertise.” He further emphasized the wide-reaching impact of her role: “Military personnel actions affect every airmen in our state, and Christine works tirelessly to guarantee fair and equitable consideration for each of the 2,000 Airmen she supports.”
Norman’s nomination package underscored her crucial personnel support provided to two wings and ten geographically dispersed units. She was instrumental in maintaining quality control over all in-state Air Guard promotion processes, ensuring accuracy and fairness for enlisted personnel advancing to E-7 and above, and officers up to O-5.
Col. Jara further elaborated on her commitment, stating, “Christine’s embodiment of our core values is truly exemplary. Her dedication to the integrity of personnel actions, her extraordinary service to all Airmen and force support squadrons across the state, and her consistently high-quality work products are commendable. She fosters open communication with her peers, both within Arkansas and across the nation, and is frequently sought out for her expert counsel.”
Beyond routine tasks, Tech. Sgt. Norman played a vital role in a special project to meticulously review personnel records. This initiative aimed to ensure that former Guardsmen received their well-deserved end-of-service decorations. Her dedication directly contributed to over 500 Guardsmen finally receiving long-overdue recognition for their service to both the state and the nation.
In a time of unprecedented challenges, Norman also extended her support to the Joint Forces Headquarters Public Affairs office at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. When the need arose to rapidly acquire equipment for livestreaming important ceremonies, her expertise in government procurement proved invaluable.
Her behind-the-scenes efforts facilitated the acquisition of essential equipment, enabling the Public Affairs team to broadcast change of command, promotion, retirement, and other significant ceremonies that were severely impacted by Covid-19 restrictions in 2020. This technological solution allowed over 35,000 Guardsmen, their families, and the public to participate in these significant life events virtually.
Demonstrating proactive problem-solving, Tech. Sgt. Norman conceived and implemented a COVID-19 best practice in 2020: virtual retention boards. This innovative approach ensured that critical retention decisions could continue uninterrupted throughout the pandemic. The virtual board system not only proved successful for Arkansas but was also adopted by six other Air National Guard state headquarters, showcasing its effectiveness and Norman’s forward-thinking leadership.
Tech. Sgt. Christine Norman’s accomplishments in 2020 demonstrate a level of dedication and expertise that goes far beyond any regional dialect. Her commitment to service, innovation, and the well-being of her fellow Airmen has earned her this distinguished Air Force award, a recognition that speaks volumes about her contributions to the Arkansas Air National Guard and the wider Air Force community.
