Team Dover Airmen earn awards at NCOA Published May 7, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Matthew Hubby 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Out of a class of more than 200 students, four Team Dover Technical Sergeants proved their excellence as three were awarded distinguished graduate and one was awarded the John L. Levitow award during their term at the Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, Non-Commissioned Officer Academy. The NCOA taught classes on leadership, communication skills, drill and ceremony, and physical training. The term lasted six and a half weeks as the students were separated into flights and learned the skills required to become better NCOs. "This was a big milestone for us all," said Tech. Sgt. Scott Horant, 9th Airlift Squadron supply NCOIC and recipient of the John L. Levitow award. "We all did our best and I think it showed. I was shocked to find out I had been selected for the Levitow award. I did my best to complete the course, and it's a real honor to have been selected for that." The John L. Levitow award is awarded based on several criteria: Academics, Peer points and instructor points. Peer points are awarded by flight mates as nominations for the award. Instructor points are awarded by the instructors for performance. "My section superintendent and our director of staff, as well as Chief Master Sgt. Evalle, came to see my graduation," said Sergeant Horant. "It was a real honor to have people from Dover come and see us all graduate and be awarded for our excellence." The course also stressed community involvement, offering many opportunities for students to volunteer in the local area. "I volunteered at the San Antonio Food Bank with my flight," said Tech. Sgt. Joseph Johnson, 436th Maintenance Operations Squadron C-17 instrument flight control systems instructor and distinguished graduate. "It showed us that not only do we have a job to do at the office, but also out in the community." The NCOA is not just another challenge however, with full duty days and study sessions; it can be a difficult course to master. "It really is a good learning experience, it is really challenging," said Sergeant Johnson. "This course is essential for NCOs, they really need to come here and not take it for granted, it takes a lot of time and effort but it is worth it. Not just for what we learn, but for the people we meet and the experiences we share."