128 ARW selected as Air National Guard Winner of 2014 Verne Orr Award Published Jan. 15, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Jenna V. Lenski 128th Air Refueling Wing MILWAUKEE -- The National Guard Bureau announced the 128th Air Refueling Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard, as the Air National Guard winner of the 2014 Verne Orr Award Jan. 13, 2014. The Air Force Association established this award in honor of former Secretary of the Air Force Verne Orr to recognize mission-oriented unit accomplishments and achievements that used personnel to their full potential in order to accomplish the mission. The Verne Orr Award, which recognizes an Air Force unit's effective use of human resources, is open to all Air Force units and organizations regardless of size. "The 128th Air Refueling Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard, distinguished itself by exceptionally meritorious service from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2013. During this period, the 128th Air Refueling Wing accomplished its mission with a maximum degree of war readiness; concurrently executed Federal Air Refueling and Local First Responder missions. The 128th Air Refueling Wing flew 3630 hours, over 737 sorties and off-loaded 17,659 pounds of fuel supporting domestic and contingency operations while utilizing impeccable fuel conservation practices. Members of the wing implemented innovative initiatives saving money Air Force wide. The distinctive accomplishments of the members of the 128th Air Refueling Wing reflect great credit upon themselves, the Air National Guard and the United States Air Force." As the Air National Guard winner, the 128 ARW is a nominee to compete on the Air Force level for the 2014 Verne Orr Award. (Information for this article was taken from the citation to accompany the award to 2014 Verne Orr Award to 128th Air Refueling Wing.)