AFMAO NCO, civilians best in A1 Published March 17, 2011 By Christin Michaud Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del., -- Three individuals from the Charles C. Carson Center for Mortuary Affairs were recognized as the "best of the best" in Headquarters Air Force's Manpower, Personnel and Services directorate, according to Col. Thomas C. Joyce, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations commander. A1 identified Senior Master Sgt. Tyrone Williams as the top Senior NCO of the Year. "Sergeant Williams is truly a model senior NCO in our organization and the Air Force," said Randy Keel, Port Mortuary director. "His quality leadership and mentoring serves as a benchmark for others to follow." His contributions cover a wide range of the mortuary mission. As the Families of the Fallen Support Branch superintendent, he oversaw support to the families and preparation of the Fisher House for Families of the Fallen dedication. In his current role as Port Mortuary Superintendent he oversaw more than 60 deployed personnel who care for the fallen. "I'm as humbled to receive the award as this humbling mission," said Sergeant Williams. "I didn't do much; it was my supervisor, commander and family who provided me the opportunity to give back to the fallen and their families in return for the sacrifice they gave to us. I received the award but our team earned it." The competition revealed Todd Rose, Mortuary Affairs Division director is the best Category III civilian in A1. As the head of the Mortuary Affairs Division, Mr. Rose oversaw Past Conflicts, entitlements benefits for Air Force casualties and support to families of the fallen from all services. "When I think about Mr. Rose's contribution to the mission of caring for our nation's families, I think of his heartfelt commitment to this mission and his team," said Trevor Dean, AFMAO deputy commander. "His commitment translates into ensuring nothing less than perfection, as it relates to serving the interests of the families we are charged with caring for during the most difficult time in their lives." Mr. Rose credited his success to his team. "I am humbled to have been recognized by the Manpower, Personnel and Services community," he said. "While I am the one receiving this recognition, it is the AFMAO leadership and the men and women working with me in ensuring dignity, honor and respect for our fallen and providing care, service and support that provides the success in our mission. It is on their behalf that I accept this award." For her work as a mortuary clerk, the Port Mortuary's Debbie Murphy won in the Civilian Category I. Ms. Murphy manages and maintains case files for remains beginning from initial notification all the way through closure, including coordination of travel to their final resting place. Her office prepares escort packages with pertinent information for each escort, and they continuously coordinate with service liaisons, embalmers, departures and funeral homes if necessary. "Ms. Murphy has continued to be an extremely valuable member to this team in accomplishing our very important mission," said Mr. Keel. "Her attention to detail and pride in the quality of her work speaks for itself." The winners will go on to compete at the Air Force level.