Coining Pope’s Finest Published Aug. 17, 2009 43rd Airlift Wing POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Each week the 43rd Airlift Wing Highlights an outstanding Airman Col. Craig Berlette, 43rd Airlift Wing Vice Commander, presented the Commander's Coin to Chaplain (Capt.) Jason Botts, 43rd AW Chaplain, on behalf of Col. James Johnson, 43rd AW Commander, for Chaplain Botts' exceptional performance beyond the call of duty. Chaplain Botts provides warrior care to members of the 43rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 21st Special Tactics Squadron, Joint Special Operations Command units, 14th Air Support Operations Squadron, 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron and the U.S. Army Golden Knights Demonstration Team. Chaplain Botts also leads the Pope Airman's Ministry Center, caring for 368 dorm residents. The Airman's Ministry Center has been able to make more than 3,400 contacts with dorm Airmen while providing more than 560 hours of on-site interaction. Since entering the Air Force as a chaplain candidate while in graduate school in 1996, Chaplain Botts' job performance has been highlighted on several occasions, including being coined by the 43rd AMXS for his contributions to squadron morale and readiness. The AMC Inspector General also coined him as an "outstanding performer." Off duty, Chaplain Botts stays active with his family of five and is involved in the Pope Chapel's contemporary service. He hopes to pursue a PhD in psychology and mentor the next generation of chaplains. His positive presence around the base and proven leadership ability was key in his selection as the Wing Company Grade Officer to attend the U.S. Air Force Leadership Challenge Program at Little Rock AFB, Ark.