BATTLE CREEK AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mich. – Tech. Sgt. Jessica R. Brazionis, 217th Air Communications Squadron (ACOMS), Michigan Air National Guard, is the Air National Guard’s Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer of the Year for 2022.
Every year, the ANG recognizes an individual from the ANG’s more than 106,000 uniformed members who personifies the highest qualities of leadership, job performance, and the whole Airman concept.
“TSgt Brazionis sets a tremendous example of what it means to be an NCO,” said Capt. Jonathan M. Johnson, 217th ACOMS director of operations and Brazionis’ supervisor. “She is a key crew member that has helped our team reach new levels of performance.”
Brazionis advises the 217th Air Operations Group and 217th ACOMS commanders on all cybersecurity matters related to the Air Operations Center Weapon System. The system is the senior command and control element of the U.S. Air Force Theater Air Control System and provides operational-level command and control of air, space and cyberspace operations.
“I have a passion for helping others and seeing the team succeed,” said Brazionis. “I consistently seek opportunities to work within the team and assist others. I feel very fortunate to achieve this award.”
One of her accomplishments was leading a year-long project with the Defense Information Systems Agency and U.S. Air Forces in Europe to construct a Michigan adjutant general high-priority $250,000 secure coalition network. Also, she accelerated outside her job by securing the first Air Operations Center enterprise integration of three U.S. Army Battlefield Coordination Detachment virtual command and control systems. Her foresight increased joint fire capability while decreasing synchronized airspace and targeting deconfliction timelines by more than 90%.
“Brazionis is one of the most superb NCOs I have ever had the privilege of working with,” Johnson said. “Her dedication to the mission and positive attitude with which she works is infectious. She also matches that mission-centric attitude with an equal amount of enthusiasm for taking care of Airmen. She is an amazing wingman for every Airman, not just those in the squadron, but around the Michigan Air National Guard.”
In addition to her 217th ACOMS position, she volunteers as a sexual assault victim advocate.
“I am very humbled by the entire experience,” Brazionis said. “I would like to recognize my entire team at the 217th ACOMS. Without them, none of this could have been possible. I am immensely grateful for their knowledge, patience and mentorship.”
