During a recent Honours and Awards Ceremony at 16 Wing, Captain Dave Fischer, instructor at the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering (CFSATE), and Chief Warrant Officer Gabriel Chartier, Commandant of the Air Command Academy (ACA), were presented the United States Air Force Meritorious Service Medal.
Both individuals were identified as having "distinguished himself in the performance of outstanding service to the Canadian Air Force" during their respective exchange postings to the Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama. Additionally, Capt Fischer (then a CWO) was recognized for his work at organizing and introducing Cultural Events showcasing language, food traditions, and societal norms from various countries, and spearheading numerous course upgrades.
CWO Chartier was also recognized as a qualified physical training leader responsible for instructing, motivating, and monitoring approximately 575 students during the Air Force’s premier Fit to Flight program. The citation adds: "Always searching to improve the program he incorporated self-defense fighting skills, accentuating a warrior ethos in both the staff and students."
