AIA announces Airman of the Year

SrA. Ronald Januszki II is 1999’s Airman of the Year.

He is from Clendenin, W.V.

Stationed at Det. 3, 18th Intelligence Squadron, Misawa, Japan, Januszki is a space systems operator.

“First in space community to detect and report vital secondary emanation procedures on foreign platform,” SSgt. Shawn McIntire, his supervisor wrote in the nomination package. “He compiled, analyzed and reported preliminary data, ultimately adopted for entity identification use.”

Januszki is also credited with helping to maintain the units unblemished driving under the influence record by creating and implementing a site-wide designated driver program. The program has more than 30 detachment, 3rd Space Surveillance Squadron and Lockheed Martin volunteers. He is also a member of the Misawa Air Base “By the Number” program, which is aimed at preventing drunk driving through peer interaction. He briefs junior enlisted people on the associated risks of alcohol and the dangers of drinking and driving.

When asked about his initial reaction when his name was called as the 1999 Outstanding Airman for AIA, he said, “It was a great relief. I think everyone at the table could see my legs shaking from the beginning of the ceremony.“

He also said, “I believe this award is going to change my life. I believe I will always hold my work to a higher standard for the remainder of my Air Force career.”