JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash.  -- Master Sgt. Scott Winchell, 62nd Aerial Port Squadron, was awarded a Bronze Star Medal during a ceremony at April 11, 2012.

Winchell distinguished himself with exceptional meritorious service while during his fifth deployment while serving as the 19th Movement Control Team superintendent from August 2011 through March 2012.

He set the bar for aircraft and surface cargo movements within the unit while leading 14 Airmen and six Soldiers. The team expedited the movement of 60,000 tons of weapon systems, fuel and supplies, 21,000 passengers on 9,000 thousand transport platforms.

While enduring 35 mortar and rocket attacks, he directed increased safety and accountability procedures within the 19th MCT, which is the only landing zone in theater to operate under blackout conditions.

He also uncovered systemic cargo fraud within theater to include 113 illegal weapons and personal goods shipments within the intra- and inter-theater movement process. His logistical vigilance led directly to policy change and scrutinization of cargo planning and execution processes.

"It was a huge accomplishment for me to correct mistakes and make sure they don't happen in the future," said Winchell. "I never imagined I'd receive a Bronze Star for this."

Additionally, Winchell exhibited the highest display of honor as he hand-carried five fallen warriors from the air ambulances in preparation for their final return home to families and loved ones.

"Given his character, not one person is surprised he received this award," said Senior Master Sgt. Robert Childress, 62nd APS passenger terminal superintendent. "He is the kind of person who makes change happen. He knows the difference between right and wrong and he's not afraid to take on a challenge. Everyone knows he deserves this."

Photo: Lt. Col. Robert Farkas, left, 62nd Aerial Port Squadron commander, pins on Master Sgt. Scott Winchell’s Bronze Star during a ceremony April 11, 2012, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. Winchell distinguished himself with exceptional meritorious service while during his fifth deployment while serving as the 19th Movement Control Team superintendent from August 2011 through March 2012. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Leah Young)