VILSECK, Germany –
When the commanding general two levels above your command recognizes you with an award, that’s quite an achievement. But when the award nomination starts as a recommendation from your peers, it’s even more special and unique.
On behalf of the commanding general of U.S. Army Sustainment Command, the 405th Army Field Support Brigade commander, Col. Brad Bane, presented Elbert Gwinn with a Highly Productive Achievement Award April 12 at the Army Field Support Battalion-Germany headquarters building on Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Germany.
Gwinn serves as general supply specialist with AFSBn-Germany, 405th AFSC, ASC. During the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2020, Gwenn identified multiple shortfalls during an inventory audit and quickly implemented new policies to correct those shortfalls – areas such as key control, non-tactical vehicle use, accountability and fleet management usage reporting. He was also instrumental in fielding a large order of office equipment and orchestrated the displacement of 80 pieces of excess equipment and supplies.
“I appreciate everyone having faith in me and recognizing the work I’ve done,” said Gwinn, who has been with AFSBn-Germany for about a year.
While many of his co-workers have been teleworking due to COVID-19 measures, he said working from home isn’t an option for him. Gwinn, who retired as a master sergeant with 20 years of service, said he’s still coming into work every day and working 8 or 9 hours a day.
“It’s impossible to telework. I have all these buildings I’m responsible for, all these keys to all the buildings I’m responsible for, all these (transportation motor pool) vehicles I’m responsible for, all these leased government vehicles I’m responsible for – there’s just no way I can extricate myself from coming into the office every day,” said Gwinn, who has worked as an Army civilian for about 13 years.
Previously assigned to AFSBn-Benelux working in Eygelshoven, Belgium, Gwinn took the position at AFSBn-Germany when it was announced the person currently serving in that position was leaving on short notice.
“It’s really good. The commander and everyone here are very friendly and take good care of us,” he said.
“It’s very meaningful that your co-workers put you in for this award, and that’s a tough cut when it gets up there to ASC. I appreciate your service and thanks a lot.” Bane said to Gwinn at the end of the awards ceremony.