EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The 96th Test Wing vice director was recognized in a retirement ceremony at the Air Force Armament Museum Jan. 5.
Lee McGehee held the highest civilian position here from 2013 – Jan. 2017 and retired after a 31-year career in the Air Force.
“She set a standard of excellence that all of us should strive to,” said Brig. Gen. Christopher P. Azzano, 96th Test Wing commander. “I counted 16 wing level or higher awards over a 30 year career. I’ve never seen anything like it, it absolutely amazes me."
Azzano presented McGehee with the Outstanding Civilian Career Service Medal for her accomplishments since 1986.
“She leaves a legacy that is going to last for many decades,” said Azzano.
As vice director, she resolved challenges which contributed to the award of an infrastructure project essential to the sustainment, restoration and modernization of 111 facilities, valued at $58 million. Also, her contributions led to the implementation of a new merit-based civilian appraisal program for 34,000 bargaining-unit employees, across eight installations, beginning in April 2017.
McGehee’s career began in 1986, as a GS-4. The majority of her positions were held in manpower and personnel. McGehee managed personnel programs, advocating for equal opportunity rights and affirmative action opportunities.
As a prior military spouse, her position changed when her husband, Don, received PCS orders.
“I didn’t really like that very much. I wanted to be in control of my own career,” said McGehee.
She saw her husband’s retirement in 1990 as an opportunity to follow her own path.
“In 1995, in the civilian personnel office world, I didn’t remember any of them not being a man and there I was,” said McGehee.
After completing a career broadening assignment, she was selected sight unseen for a new position, based on her work history alone.
“[That] says a lot about the Air Force, that they select the best person for the job,” said McGehee.