1st SOW receives AF Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Published Feb. 19, 2008 By Tech. Sgt. Kristina Newton 1st SOW Public Affairs HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The 1st Special Operations Wing was recently awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor for exceptionally meritorious service from July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007. During this time the 1st SOW supported operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, executing more than 13,000 combat missions in the Central Command Area of Responsibility, as well as responding to numerous contingency and humanitarian missions. Col. Mark Alsid, 1st SOW vice commander, said he appreciates the efforts of everyone involved and would expect nothing less from the professionals of the 1st SOW. "Winning this award is a reflection of the dedication and commitment that is standard of the 1st SOW," Col. Alsid said. "It's a well deserved honor for the Air Commandos of our wing." The 1st SOW proved its merit by receiving a rating of excellent during a congressionally mandated Operational Readiness Inspection while also responding to a Joint Chiefs of Staff directed exercise and a Southern Command contingency operation. In addition to its exceptional operational achievements, the 1st SOW led the way in response to the Quadrennial Defense Review's direction to expand special operations forces by planning for and receiving numerous specialized aircraft including the CV-22 Osprey and MQ-1 Predator. Furthermore, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the 1st SOW flew more than 70 relief missions, rescued 1,395 stranded victims and constructed an operating base capable of supporting 1,600 disaster relief personnel. The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor device may be worn by members assigned to the unit for any portion of the award period. Eligible members should direct questions to their servicing commander support staff or military personnel flight for award update procedures.