Holloman Air Force Base is an outstanding example of what the Air Force considers to be a top-notch military installation. As proof, Air Combat Command awarded Holloman the Commander-in-Chief's 2013 Installation Excellence Award.
The importance and stature of this award was stated in a press release after last year's winner was announced: "The Commander in Chief's Award is a proud military tradition and the highest honor bestowed on a military installation. In 1985, President Ronald Reagan urged the DoD to search for installations that are the 'best of the best' at utilizing their resources to support its mission and provide innovative solutions to complex problems."
"We've had a very successful year, and we have been able to do some really great things on the base," said Col. Kevin Bennett, 49th Mission Support Group commander.
A few of Holloman's accomplishments this year include installation of solar panels in base housing, surviving a 75% budget cut without having to close any services, and the 49th Logistics Readiness Squadron winning the Green Fleet award for saving $17,000 annually in fuel costs.
The base will now compete for the award at the Air Force level. "We won for the MAJCOM (Major Command), and the package that details all of the great things we have done in the past year is pretty darn strong, so I'm hopeful that we come out on top," said Bennett.
As a finalist competing for this award, Holloman has the potential to win $1 million to be used to enhance services commonly used by its Airmen. These funds could possibly be used to finish renovations at the community activity center, install lights over the soccer field, or outfit two newly-renovated rooms in the Child Development Center.
An inspection is scheduled for later this year to determine the Air Force-wide winner of the 2013 CINC Installation Excellence Award.