Quarterly inspections recognize 'neat' Airmen

  • Published
  • By Anthony Jennings
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Three dorm residents had a surprising visit from their command chiefs and First Sergeants April 22, for winning Dorm of the Quarter in their wing. 

Dorm of the Quarter is a competition designed to recognize Airmen who uphold a hygienic standard of living and make their living quarters truly theirs.

Recipients of the award are selected every quarter after a routine inspection of the dormitories. First sergeants nominate those who've excelled in cleanliness and have created a habitable living space. The chosen rooms are subsequently graded by the respective command chief. 

This is the fifth Dorm Room of the Quarter recognition since its rebirth in May 2008 and the first time the 53rd Wing has participated in the event, for a total to three participating wings and more than 700 dorm occupants. 

Airmen 1st Class Horace Wilcox, 96th Security Forces Squadron, Logan Isham, 46th Air Maintenance Squadron and Senior Airman Nicholas Richards, 68th Electronic Warfare Squadron, received $25 gift cards for Army and Air Force Exchange Services, and local businesses in the community. 

They were also given a one-day pass and coin by their respective Command Chief.
Chief Master Sgt. Terry West, 53rd WG command chief, said dorm room inspections are vital in telling base leadership two things. 

"First, it reminds leadership how well we're doing in taking care of the living conditions for our Airmen or if any adjustments need to be made to increase their quality of life," the command chief said. "Second, it gives us a chance to recognize those Airmen that went above and beyond and highlights those who take pride in where they live." 

For Airman Richards, winning the award was a nice welcoming gift. 

"It's an amazing feeling to get this award," he said. "Especially since I just arrived here on station." 

Airman Wilcox said his primary motivation to put so much effort into personalizing his room was his individuality. 

"The layout of each room is exactly the same," said the Fort Lauderdale, Fla. native. "I'm not too fond of my living area being identical to everyone else's, so I decided to take action and make it my own." 

Whether it is to distinguish one's room from others, because they're "neat freaks," or to simply win Dorm of the Quarter awards, the motivation to keep one's living quarters tidy has various benefits.