This airman from southwestern Illinois is the toast of the National Guard. Here’s why

Airman 1st Class Landon Hiebert of Troy, an airman with the 126th Air Refueling Wing located at Scott Air Force Base, was named the Illinois Air National Guard’s “Outstanding Airman of the Year.”

Hiebert was nominated by his unit and competed with airmen from across the state. He will move on to compete at the national level. Hiebert was honored for his work with the 126th ARW and the Illinois Air National Guard over the past year.

“I am exceptionally pleased that A1C Hiebert was recognized for his efforts and achievements. Since Basic Training and Technical School, he has performed well above his peers and continues to strive for excellence every day” said Col. Tom Jackson, commander, 126th Air Refueling Wing.

The Illinois Air National Guard “Outstanding Airmen of the Year” awards were presented on Jan. 8 at Illinois National Guard headquarters on Camp Lincoln in Springfield. Other winners were “Noncommissioned Officer of the Year” Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Paczesny, also of the 126th Air Refueling Wing based on Scott Air Force Base, “Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year” Master Sgt. Dylan Geer of the 183rd Wing based in Springfield, and “First Sergeant of the Year” Master Sgt. Kathy Moran of the 182nd Airlift Wing based in Peoria.

“These Airmen represent the best of the best in the Illinois Air National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Pete Nezamis, Assistant Adjutant General — Air and Commander of the Illinois Air National Guard. “With their determination, attention to detail and laser focus on the mission, the Illinois Air National Guard is operating at high levels. It’s my absolute pleasure to recognize these Airmen for the amazing things they have accomplished over the last year.”

“The leadership, growth and resilience demonstrated by these Airman over the last year truly exemplifies the core values of the Air Force and the Illinois Air National Guard,” said Maj. Gen. Rich Neely, the Adjutant General and Commander of the Illinois National Guard. “As members of the Illinois Air National Guard, these Airmen completed deployments, professional military education, leadership courses and training — all while balancing home life and civilian careers.

“They truly stepped up and went above and beyond. It’s my honor to recognize their individual accomplishments and award them with the Outstanding Airman of the Year awards. I look forward to seeing them continue to grow as leaders in their own units and the Illinois National Guard. We wish them all the best as they move on to compete at the national level.”

This story was originally published January 12, 2022 at 10:00 AM.