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Gen. Roger Brady, U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander, presented the USAFE Medal of Distinction to Horst Mehlinger, a German security liaison who has worked closely with the command for nearly three decades, during a ceremony on Ramstein Dec. 8.
“I appreciate very much the contribution that you have made to the relationship between the U.S. and Germany and to our security,” General Brady said to Mr. Mehlinger during the ceremony. “You have really been a force multiplier in our ability to get our job done safely and efficiently. On behalf of all the men and women of USAFE, I want to thank you personally for the job you have done.”
For the past 29 years, Mr. Mehlinger has been a key liaison between USAFE and Rhineland-Pfalz law enforcement agencies. His association with the command began after the August 1981 Red Army Faction bombing of the USAFE headquarters.
As a consequence of the attack, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations formed the AFOSI Protective Service Detail, which works with host nation security agencies to protect the USAFE commander during off-base movements.
In November 1981, Mr. Mehlinger was appointed by the minister of interior as the liaison officer to the PSD.
“Mr. Mehlinger has been a longtime friend and professional colleague of AFOSI as we’ve provided security and law enforcement support to the men and women of USAFE over many many years,” said Col. David Denning, AFOSI Region 5 commander. “He’s been the gold standard when it comes to law enforcement and security cooperation, and his support to our command has left a positive impression that will last for years to come.”
The USAFE Medal of Distinction is awarded to non-U.S. citizens in recognition of extraordinary service, achievements or support to the accomplishment of the mission of USAFE.
For more information, contact the USAFE Public Affairs operations division at 0637-1476558 or usafe.pao@ramstein.af.mil.
(Courtesy of U.S. Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs)
