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505th Command and Control Wing News

Hurlburt Airman named Air Force Military Tester

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Andrea Posey
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
Master Sgt. Daniel Drennen, 605th Test and Evaluation Squadron flight chief, was awarded the 2014 National Defense Industrial Association Air Force Military Tester of the year award at the annual NDIA Test and Evaluation conference in Springfield, VA., March 2 - 4, 2015.

The award, presented to outstanding individuals in the field of Test and Evaluation, offers the Office of the Secretary of Defense and each Military Service Test and Evaluation Department the opportunity to select three award recipients for recognition as the Tester of the Year in specific categories.

"It is not surprising that [Drennen] received this award. He is an amazing sergeant who dives deep into what needs to be done to accomplish the mission," said Capt. Chad Brandl, 605th Test and Evaluation Squadron flight commander. "This program could not be what it is today without him."

Drennen was recognized in the military category for orchestrating operational testing of the Air Force Distributed Common Ground Station Geospatial Intelligence Baseline version 4.1, which achieved the first baseline upgrade installation in more than six years and enabled continuous mission support for eight Combatant Commands.

"I am happy to receive this award," said Drennen. "But I give thanks to my entire team for the great success of our program."

His additional accomplishments included overseeing the operational utility evaluation of Gorgon Stare Increment Two upgrade that resulted in the successful fielding of the $168 million capability. He also facilitated the conduct of the first Integrated Test Team meeting for the Air Force Distributed Common Ground Station in more than three years.

Drennen believes his accomplishments are a direct reflection on the training he's received at his squadron, and plans to continue honing his craft.