Rome resident Mathew Cole is EADS outstanding junior airman

The Eastern Air Defense Sector (EADS) and the New York Air National Guard's 224th Air Defense Group (ADG) have named their annual award winners for the past year.

"The nation's air defense mission requires engaged and consistent excellence from all of our members," said Col. Joseph F. Roos, 224th ADG Commander. "The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic made this past year especially demanding and our winners distinguished themselves by going above and beyond our high standards. I congratulate them on their outstanding accomplishments and thank them for their efforts."

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year's in-person ceremony has been cancelled. A virtual ceremony is currently being scheduled for March 5.

Award recipients were:
Airman 1st Class Mathew Cole, Rome, Outstanding Airman. A Security Forces Airman, Cole was recognized for his all-around outstanding performance. He had the top score in the unit's marksmanship competition and played a critical role in stopping a potential gate runner. Cole provided outstanding support for denial barrier, active shooter and entry control training and played a key role in organizing and supporting the ADG Commander's designated drivers program.

The 224th ADG is composed of the 224th ADS and 224th SPTS, located in Rome, and Detachment 1 and Detachment 2 that serve in the Washington, D.C. area. The 224th ADG provides the forces to conduct the Eastern Air Defense Sector's (EADS) mission. Part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Sector is responsible for the air defense of the eastern U.S.

For more information about the New York Air National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov. For more information on the Eastern Air Defense Sector and the 224th Air Defense Group, visit www.eads.ang.af.mil.