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Story & photos by
Staff Sgt. Jimmie D. Pike
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Members of the 86th Force Support Squadron celebrated as 86th Airlift Wing leadership visited to recognize one of their own as Airlifter of the Week on Ramstein Air Base, Oct. 2.
Steven Sarandos, 86th FSS community cohesion coordinator, was recognized by Col. Matt S. Husemann, 86th AW vice commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Ernesto J. Rendon, 86th AW command chief, among his peers for his outstanding achievements.
As the sole community cohesion coordinator, Sarandos positively affected the morale and welfare of more than 60,000 members of the Kaiserslautern Military Community through the rollout of Chief of Staff of the Air Force’s United Program, which provides commanders with funding for initiatives to benefit all Airmen through morale, welfare, and recreation events. Sarandos was integral in the organization and execution of six major events and was a key player in the success of Ramstein’s Freedom Fest and Bazaar that raised about 250,000 dollars.
“The best part for me is taking care of the Airmen,” said Sarandos. “That’s what I want to do. I grew up as a military brat and got to see the effects of these events as a family member, and now I get to coordinate these events for the Airmen.”
Another facet of Sarandos’s nomination was his intent to work for Airmen at all costs. He volunteered for a six-month deployment where he will work as a Community Activities Center flight chief improving the downrange experience for other deployed personnel.
“I think this is an important time of year to be in the position I’m heading to because deployed personnel will be away from home during the holiday season,” said Sarandos. “I’ll be able to give back and have a direct impact on their experience.”
The Airlifter of the Week program recognizes Ramstein Airmen for their hard work and dedication, making the 86th AW the “World’s
Best Wing.”
