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644th CBCS ‘Top Performer’ makes education, fitness, volunteerism top priorities

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  Airmen in the 36th Contingency Response Group often work in high ops tempo career fields, making it a daunting task for some to be extremely active in off-duty events and educational pursuits. 

That's not the case for 'Top Performer' Senior Airman Andrew Hughes, 644th Combat Communications Squadron network control center deployable technician, who was selected by Master Sgt. Anthony Cruz-Munoz, 644th CBCS first sergeant, for his steadfast dedication to his priorities. 

The Gladwin, Mich., native has served in the Air Force for two and a half years. He arrived here in November after a two-year assignment to Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. 

"He's that 'stellar' Airman that you hear about and is a well-rounded individual in regards to his [duty performance] and professionalism," said Staff Sgt. Lorenda Wilson, 644th CBCS computer systems operations supervisor. "He always asks if anybody needs any help with anything or if there's any way he can volunteer to help out with squadron functions. He is a hard-working Airman." 

Since his arrival, Airman Hughes has logged more than 25 hours of volunteerism and has supported numerous organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots and Big Brother, Big Sister. 

Airman Hughes also has a clear picture on his educational pursuits. 

"Right now, I'm six credits [away] from my [Community College of the Air Force] degree," Airman Hughes said. "I've taken five classes since I've been here and taken two [College Level Examination Program] tests. I'm working on a bachelor's degree in information system management and my CCAF degree will be for information system technology." 

Whenever he's not volunteering or hitting the books, Airman Hughes might be found putting his feet to the asphalt in an effort to be "fit-to-fight" or descending underwater to catch a glimpe of the beauty of Guam below sea level. 

Airman Hughes named running, snorkeling and scuba diving as some of his favorite pastimes. Since joining the Air Force, he has completed one full marathon, two half-marathons and a plethora of 5Ks. He has obtained his scuba certification and he has ambitions of participating in the Ko'Ko Road Race in October. 

Having accomplished many of his goals in such a short span, Airman Hughes isn't quite sure whether the future will take him. 

"I [haven't decided] if I want to cross over and become an officer, if I want to stay enlisted or if I want to get out yet," Airman Hughes said. "It depends on whether I finish my bachelor's degree. I like the Air Force so far, though." 

When told he was being recognized as a 'Top Performer,' Airman Hughes displayed a strong show of humility and modesty. 

"I've always thought that it's great to be recognized for accomplishments but it shouldn't be required," Airman Hughes said. "I do the things that I do [to better] myself. Whether you [recognize] me or not, I'm still going to volunteer, continue my education and do my job well."