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Coining Pope's Finest

  • Published
  • By 43rd Airlift Wing
  • 43rd Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Col. Craig Berlette, 43rd Airlift Wing Vice Commander, presented the Commander's Coin on behalf of Col. James Johnson, 43rd AW Commander, to Capt. Nate Cook, 43rd AW, April 6, for his exceptional performance beyond the call of duty.

Captain Cook is the Chief of Wing Plans and Inspections and is also a C-130 Aircraft Commander.

Captain Cook's job performance can be highlighted in several occasions. Following the recent Haiti humanitarian mission, the captain collected lessons learned from both the Air Force and the Army. He has also drafted and authored post-BRAC concept of operations for rapid Army outload operations from Green Ramp.

The captain has also revamped the base inspection and exercise plan and coordinates weekly with the 440th AW and the Army to build a combined antiterrorism and execise plan.

Off duty, Captain Cook is actively working toward his Masters of Military Operational Art and Science degree while helping to raise his three year old son.

Captain Cook moved from the 2nd Airlift Squadron to the Wing Staff only a few short months ago but has made tremendous strides not only for the wing but to improve the wing, said Lt. Col. Lynn Irwin, 43rd AW, Director of Staff. He provides leadership and mentorship to his troops and supports the Wing whenever needed.

"We continue to downsize the XP office in order to achieve post-BRAC endstate of two civilians by November of this year, but he keeps the office running at full force," said Colonel Irwin. "I can't think of a more loyal or hard working person on the wing staff."