The Air Force’s 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2021 will be formally recognized at AFA’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference from Sept. 20 to 22 in National Harbor, Md. Air Force Magazine is highlighting one each workday from now until the conference begins. Today, we honor Staff Sgt. Alex M. Sandmann, a noncommissioned officer in charge of electronic security systems at Minot Air Force Base, N.D.
In his role with Air Force Global Strike Command, Sandmann leads two Airmen and directs the testing and maintenance of over 7,100 sensors located in the Weapons Storage Area and flight line. His team ensures the protection of 89 sectors, 25 B-52 Stratofortresses, and 21 facilities valued at $5.5 billion.
Sandmann organized a fix action for four badging systems by coordinating with six organizations, eliminating the need to reissue 3,000 badges. His ingenuity also led to the development of three alarm-testing tools that cut average testing time by 50 percent, saving 2,400 personnel hours annually. He oversaw the installation of a $1.7 million temporary alarm system during the WSA upgrade, cutting posting by 80 percent.
Finally, Sandmann earned his CCAF in criminal justice, was awarded the Airman Leadership School Commandant and Distinguished Graduate Awards, and completed the Electronic Security System Manager’s course, earning his special experience identifier.
Read more about the other Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2021: