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554th RHS ‘Top Performer’ gets hands dirty

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  A 'dirt boy' from the 554th RED HORSE Squadron recently earned 'Top Performer' honors for his work ethic and dedication.

Staff Sgt. Derrick Ross, 554th RHS pavements and construction equipment craftsman, works as a construction crew leader at the Pacific Air Forces Regional Training Center.

"He was selected for this award because he's the go-to man in the shop," said Master Sgt. David Robin, 554th RED HORSE Squadron first sergeant. "We've nicknamed him 'The Silent Solution,' because he takes care of problems without complaining. He always has a smile on his face, and he always says 'No problem,' because handling business is no problem to this guy."

Although not a direct reporting official, Sergeant Ross supervises, trains and mentors 15 Airmen on vital equipment such as bulldozers, graders, compaction equipment and asphalt pavers.

"The Air Force has given me a very marketable trade with lots of multi-skill knowledge," Sergeant Ross said.

The Truro, Iowa, native joined the Air Force July 21, 2003 Sergeant Ross is an active volunteer at Andersen Elementary School and as part of the Airmen Against Drunk Driving program. When he's not at work or volunteering, Sergeant Ross enjoys fishing, hanging out with friends, going to the drag strip and barbecuing.

Sergeant Ross sees many positives from his decision to cross into the blue and do something amazing.

"I like the travels and education opportunities," Sergeant Ross said. "I have met some very diverse and interesting individuals during my time in the Air Force."