Guard recruiter receives national honors

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Bob Oldham
  • 189th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  An Arkansas Air National Guard senior NCO recently was named the Air National Guard's Outstanding Recruiting and Retention Superintendent of the Year. 

Senior Master Sgt. Jesse J. "Buddy" Burns of Beebe earned the top honors, according to an Air National Guard message released in April. 

As the state's senior recruiter, he oversees recruiting operations at three locations: Hot Springs, Fort Smith and Jacksonville. 

With 30 years of recruiting and retention experience, he's known and respected nationwide in the Air National Guard, Brig. Gen. Riley Porter, Arkansas ANG commander, wrote in the nomination package. 

"I can't think of a more deserving person than Sergeant Burns," the general said. "The Arkansas Air Guard is in a lot better shape than other states when it comes to strength and that's attributable to his efforts and the efforts of his recruiters around the state." 

Through his mentorship, training and assistance, the state accessioned 230 recruits, 111 percent of its goal. At the same time, the strength of the 189th Airlift Wing increased from 96 percent to more than 100 percent. 

"Buddy has been so good to us," said Col. Dwight Balch, 189th Airlift Wing commander. "At one time or another, he probably recruited half of our wing's members. He's an exceptional NCO who has had an unwavering commitment to the Arkansas Air Guard for 30 years." 

In addition to his military duties, Sergeant Burns is also busy in his hometown. He's active in his church, volunteering as chairman of the staff and parish relations committee. 

He also served on the Beebe High School Project Graduation Committee, helping raise $10,000 for gifts and prizes. He also volunteered more than 100 hours of his time to help primary school faculty paint and decorate, improving their facilities.