Sergeant earns AF-level award

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Tammie Moore
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  In an age when customer service skills are often lacking, an Airman here received Air Force-level recognition for her attention to detail and dedication to the Southern Pines Inn patrons. Staff Sgt. Keyonna Creecy was ecstatic when she learned she earned the Air Force Innkeepers Travelers Award for her work as the Southern Pines Inn guest services supervisor.

"Words can't explain the emotions that were running through my mind," she said. "I was speechless, in awe, to this day I really don't think I can put a word to exactly how I felt and how I feel about receiving this award. I just know I am humbled and honored."

Her supervisor, Tech. Sgt. James Ellis, was not surprised when he learned Sergeant Creecy earned the Air Force Innkeeper Traveler's Award.

"This award was well deserved," said the Southern Pines Inn guest services manager. "She has a great attitude and her professionalism is above and beyond. She truly represents the Air Force core values. This is a great honor for her and our squadron."

Sergeant Creecy, a Washington D.C. native, does not credit her receipt of this award to her actions alone.

"I attribute earning this award to my faith in God, past and present supervisors; whether good or bad, I have learned something from each of them," she said. "I attribute earning this award to the Southern Pines Inn family that stands together through thick and thin. There is a wealth of knowledge at lodging and we all foster the same values. Customer service first!"

Sergeant Creecy said that her love for God and her family drive her to excel in everything she does.
"I know that if those people weren't in my life I would be nowhere," she said. "I know I have to succeed so I can set the example and be the role model my kids will emulate."

Earning this award is not something Sergeant Creecy takes lightly.

"This award means everything to me," she said. "It's a rare accomplishment that few get to experience during their whole entire career, and I was blessed enough to experience such an honor, not just within my squadron, but the entire Air Force. It means I can exceed even my own expectations, believing in myself when no one else does, knowing that if I stand strong on my faith all things will work out!"