2nd quarter inspections recognize outstanding upkeeping

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Anthony Jennings
  • 96th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  In the second round of the competitive quarterly dorm room inspections, one Airman stood out above the rest to receive a certificate and a one-day free pass for a job well done from one of Eglin's top ranking enlisted. 

Airman 1st Class Diane Ligon, 96th In-Patient Squadron medical technician, was taken by surprised when Chief Master Sgt. Troy Engholm, 96th Air Base Wing Command Chief, as well as many of Eglin's first sergeants, popped up at her job July 15 to present her with well deserved awards and certificates. 

"This program is a way for leadership to recognize those Airmen who have gone above and beyond the required standard," said Chief Master Sgt. Engholm. "We're not just looking for who can be the cleanest. We're searching for those who have made the effort to truly make their room home." 

Amid the certificate and one-day free pass, Airman Ligon also received a free dinner for two at Longhorns, an Army and Air Force Exchange Services gift certificate and other incentives. 

"I really didn't expect this, considering that last time I was eliminated in the final inspection," said Airman Ligon. "This just makes it all worth the effort." 

The Room of the Quarter is a traditional recognition program that was revived by Eglin's command chiefs and first sergeants. The award is presented to Airman who has taken keeping their room tidy another step further by personalizing it and making their own. 

The Room of the Quarter competition begins with an initial routine inspection by the Airmen's first sergeant, who will then nominate those who have excelled in cleanliness and creating a habitable living space. The nominated rooms are then graded by their respective command chief. 

"It's all about making the room yours, and she certainly did that," said Airman Ligon's first sergeant, Master Sgt. Grant Thomasson, 96th MDG/CCF. "I never doubted that she would win - I would have been surprised if she didn't." 

Room of the Quarter was designed by leadership to encourage Airmen keep their living area in top condition, as well as take pride in the real-estate that the Air Force has provided them.