4th FW Airman earns USO-NC Spirit of Freedom Award

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class John Nieves Camacho
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  An Airman from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base was recently awarded the United Service Organizations of North Carolina Spirit of Freedom for 2012.

Senior Airman Justin Beasley, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal journeyman, won the award for outstanding service in his profession both stateside and overseas.

The Spirit of Freedom award is given to one service member from each military branch in North Carolina who distinguished themselves by going above and beyond, performing heroic or extraordinary acts, while serving stateside, overseas or in a combat zone.

"It's a pretty good accomplishment," Beasley said. "I feel proud I got this award and that I'm serving my country, but I feel like all the credit should go to the guys over there still fighting."
Beasley's leadership says the award is well deserved and reflects his work ethic on and off duty.

"Airman Beasley is one of our top performers," said Master Sgt. Vandiver Hood, 4th CES EOD flight chief. "He's had significant contributions and has recently been in Afghanistan. When you're out there taking care of an improvised explosive device, things can get hairy and he has shown that he is the kind of guy you want out there next to you."

On his recent deployment to Afghanistan, Beasley conducted 82 combat missions. During which, he cleared 51 improvised explosive devices, 2,200 pounds of explosives and spearheaded the destruction of 184 enemy weapons and 1,100 pounds of explosives. He also trained 125 coalition forces soldiers on IED tactics techniques and procedures.

"He's a very motivated kid," said Tech. Sgt. Tracy Passerotti, 4th CES EOD craftsman. "He does a great job everyday, really knows his stuff and he's always willing to learn more. He works hard at getting everything correct, and epitomizes what it means to be a good Airman, (on and off duty)."

Beasley will receive his award during the Salute to Freedom Gala in Raleigh Oct. 27, 2012.

For more information on the event, contact the USO of North Carolina, Inc., at 919-840-3000.