Moody Leaders Honor Additional-duty First Sergeant of the Year

Senior Airman Rachel Coates

Thursday, October 5th, 2023

The 23rd Wing commander recognized the 75th Fighter Generation Squadron additional-duty first sergeant with a Full Time Additional-Duty First Sergeant of the Year award Sept. 29, 2023, at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia.

Col. Paul Sheets presented Tech. Sgt. Heather Joyner an award for her dedication to serving Airmen assigned to the 75th FGS as well as Moody personnel.

“First sergeants are expected to build and maintain a mission-ready force,” Sheets said. “Joyner did just that by spending her time connecting with Airmen around base, helping solve and mitigate any issues that were brought to her. Team Moody is grateful to have her on our team.”

As an additional-duty first sergeant, Joyner helped ensure a mission-ready force by advising commanders on the health, welfare, morale, readiness and quality of life for Airmen and their families.

In September 2022, Joyner eagerly volunteered to help the 75th FGS’s primary first sergeant, Master Sgt. Jason White, assisting him in day-to-day operations or filling in completely while he was otherwise occupied.

“I step into his role when he’s downrange or (when he’s traveling),” Joyner said. “I’m already tracking what’s been going on, so it makes it easier to fill in while he’s gone.”

The past year that Joyner has operated as an additional duty first sergeant, has been filled with diverse and impactful moments.

“My experience has been indescribable,” Joyner said. “There’s a lot of ups and downs. You see the good, the bad and everything in between, but it’s so rewarding to be a part of somebody’s journey and help gear it in one direction or another.”

Her actions have impacted those she has supported for the better. Her supervisor and mentor had nothing but good words and praise for her work.

“She’s done a phenomenal job filling the additional-duty role and acting like a seasoned first sergeant,” White said. “She helps take a lot off my plate, keeps my memory jogged and I do the same for her – we’re always in lockstep.”

Joyner’s many other accomplishments truly signify the 23rd Wing’s motto: Tiger’s Lead!