Honolulu resident and Tactical Air Command and Control Journeyman, SSGT. Christopher Beversdorf, will receive the USO Airman of the Year award in the nation’s capitol next month.
SSGT. Beversdorf, who is assigned to the 25th Air Support Operations Squadron, Wheeler Army Airfield in Hawaii, was chosen by Senior Enlisted officials with the Air Force for his bravery, loyalty and heroism during Operation Hammer Down in Afghanistan last year.
While responding as part of a quick reaction force, Sergeant Beversdorf crashed aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, helped save the lives of nine wounded warriors and neutralized thirty enemy fighters.
SSGT. Beversdorf will receive this top honor at the USO’s 2012, star studded Gala on Nov. 2, in front more than 1,000 people, including his family and top military officials.
As a Joint Terminal Attack Controller, Sergeant Beversdorf is responsible for advising supported joint and multinational ground commanders on coalition aircraft capabilities, limitations, and effects within a specified area of operations.
He coordinates between fire support agencies to neutralize aggression, suppress enemy combatants, and destroy hostile targets. His duties include integrating artillery, mortars, attack helicopters, and fixed wing aircraft to safely and effectively support a ground commander’s scheme of maneuver.
Sergeant Beversdorf was born in Yuma, Arizona on April 16, 1985. After graduating from Westview High School in 2003, he enlisted in the Air Force, attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Sergeant Beversdorf was then selected to attend Tactical Air Command and Control Apprentice training at Hurlburt Field, Florida, whereupon he was assigned to the 2nd Air Support Operations Squadron, Leighton Barracks, Wuerzburg, Germany.
From Germany, Sergeant Beversdorf deployed four times in support of worldwide contingency operations; twice to Iraq and twice to Afghanistan. While in Germany, he made time to involve himself with the local community and assist with events such as the Wuerzburg Special Olympics.
It was also in Germany that Sergeant Beversdorf would find the love of his life and be wed to his beautiful wife, Kathrin.
In 2010, Sergeant Beversdorf received orders to the 25th Air Support Operations Squadron and moved to Hawaii. Since relocating, Staff Sergeant Beversdorf has completed his fifth combat deployment.
His most recent deployment was in support of the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.
His military awards include one Joint Commendation medal; five Army Commendation Medals, one with valor; an Air force Commendation Medal; and the Air Force Combat Action Medal.
He attends American Military University and is working towards a bachelor’s degree in general studies.
Submitted by the USO
Way to go Beve! We're all incredibly proud of you and thank you for your bravery and service! Love ya, your unc t.
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