Air Force Space Command Outstanding NCO of the Year
Staff Sgt. Rory Sturm, Jr., 721st Security Forces Squadron, 721st Mission Support Group, displayed selfless acts of valor and heroism by replacing a wounded gunner during an enemy ambush, saving 12 lives. For his actions, he was awarded the 21st Space Wing’s first Air Force Combat Action Medal. While deployed to Camp Bucca, Iraq, he supported 3,000 coalition forces maintaining security of over 12,000 detainees and $300 million in government assets. As flight armorer, he managed and ensured 100 percent accountability for more than $400,000 of weapons, munitions and equipment. Additionally, for his steadfast leadership and bravery, Sergeant Strum was selected as the 21st SW Lance P. Sijan Award winner. Constantly striving for excellence, he completed 12 credit hours toward a Community College of the Air Force Criminal Justice Degree. Finally, he devoted 16 hours to the DASH program; credited with saving four lives and increasing community safety. Sergeant Strum is currently on a 365-day deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo)