Emblem of 30th Space Wing station at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. Photo: U.S. Air Force

For the fifth time this decade, the 30th Space Wing received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. The award covers the period from Jan. 1, 1998 to Sept. 30, 1999.

"I am extremely proud of the teamwork and dedication shown by the men and women of the 30th SW," said Col. Steve Lanning, 30th SW commander. "Each and every member of Team Vandenberg helped the 30th SW win this award."

During this period, the wing conducted 29 launches with a 100 percent success rate. The 30th also earned an "excellent" rating for all aspects of mission performance during the Operational Readiness Inspection.

In addition to its already impressive mission record, the 30th SW also distinguished itself by capturing the Gen. Thomas S. Moorman Jr. Award for "best overall wing" in Air Force Space Command. The wing also received the Gen. Robert T. Herres Award for "best spacelift" for the third consecutive year and at Guardian Challenge '99, the Bernard A. Schriever Trophy for "best spacelift wing" in AFSPC.

The wing was recognized for implementing innovations that saved the Air Force time, money and manpower. The award also cited the wing's commitment to improving base-wide facilities while honoring its commitment in preserving the environment.

Additionally, the men and women of the 30th SW were recognized for their support of numerous charitable organizations on base and in the local community.

"The 30th SW accomplishments, distinguished and professional personnel, and tireless commitment to supporting the local community are indicative of Team Vandenberg's spirit," Lanning said. This spirit represents outstanding contributions to the Air Force and clearly demonstrates why the wing is deserving of such a prestigious award, he added.

The 30th SW received its first AFOUA of the 90's for the period Nov. 1, 1991 to Sept. 30, 1993. The last time the wing captured the award was for the period of Jan. 1, 1997 to Dec. 31, 1997.