Coining Pope's Finest Published Oct. 22, 2009 43rd Operations Support Squadron POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Each Week Col. James Johnson, 43rd Airlift Wing Commander, Highlights An Outstanding Airman Col. James Johnson, 43rd Airlift Wing Commander, presented his Commander's Coin to Senior Airman Marisela Hazzard, 43rd Operations Support Squadron, Oct. 20 for her exceptional performance beyond the call of duty. Airman Hazzard is a Weather Forecaster and performs planning of operational weather for the 43rd AW, 440th Airlift Wing, U.S. Army Golden Knights and 427 Special Operations Squadron. She monitors and interprets atmospheric data using sensing equipment including satellite, radar and numerical forecast models. She utilizes this data by tailoring it into weather briefings used to support all operations. Airman Hazzard's outstanding job performance is evident through several examples. Since arriving at Pope in late June, she has hit the ground running. She has received her position certification in two weeks, historically a six-week process. Her certification instantly boosted qualified flight manning from 92 percent to 100 percent. Additionally, she has been essential in the preparation for the weather flight's staff assistance visit. Airman Hazzard has updated and reviewed 18 standard operating procedures, ensuring compliance with more than 130 inspection checklist items. She has also managed the overhaul of an Automatic Data Processing Equipment account valued at more than $12,000, guaranteeing 100 percent accountability. Off duty, Airman Hazzard enjoys running. She recently participated in the 2009 Air Force Marathon at Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio. She is a volunteer for the Red Cross and has donated blood for fellow Airman downrange. Airman Hazzard is married to Mark, a senior airman with the 18th Weather Squadron. Most recently, she dedicated her time to support the newest staff sergeants on Pope. Airman Hazzard assisted in the set-up for the release celebration and organized the certificates for the new selectees. She was also the proffer during the announcement and awarding of the certificates. She is currently serving as the squadron Combined Federal Campaign representative. Airman Hazzard is an impressive airman with endless initiative and a fantastic attitude. She has led from the front and is ingrained in the 43rd AW mission.