The Association of Defense Communities in a Washington, D.C., ceremony this week recognized Alabama Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Randal Efferson with the 2018 Military Leadership Award for his exemplary leadership qualities.
The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, a Business Council of Alabama member, congratulated Brig. Gen. Efferson for “this well-deserved recognition.” U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, presented the award to Brig. Gen. Efferson during the 2018 Defense Communities National Summit in the nation’s capital.
Previously a colonel, Brig. Gen. Efferson was promoted in rank in December and serves as assistant adjutant general/air component commander. He was wing commander of the 187th Fighter Wing, an F-16 unit at Montgomery Air National Guard’s Dannelly Field.
Dannelly Field is one of two bases that was selected by the Air Force to house a squadron of the new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
ADC President Bill Parry said Brig. Gen. Efferson places a high priority on forging and maintaining strong relationships and frequent, open communication with the communities surrounding the base and their public officials.
“Alabamans have long known Brig. Gen. Efferson as a leader who helps shape their state’s military missions through collaboration, technical expertise and a good-natured spirit,” Parry said. “We are proud to honor him for his successes in strengthening the bonds among the Air National Guard, the Air Force, military families and the community.”
The award also acknowledges Brig. Gen. Efferson’s other accomplishments. He was influential in the enactment of a new law that provides 100 percent of tuition assistance for every member of the Alabama National Guard, and tirelessly saluted and promoted the history of the 187th, the Chamber of Commerce said.
“Another important factor in our success was Gen. Efferson’s steadfast embrace of the proud legacy of the 100th fighter squadron of Tuskegee Airmen,” Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange said. “He worked diligently to incorporate the airmen’s continuing story into the 187th’s history.”
The ADC is the nation’s leading association representing communities and states with a significant military presence and their partner organizations. It builds resilient communities that support America’s military and unites the diverse interests of communities, states, the private sector and the military on issues such as protecting defense infrastructure, community-military partnerships, defense real estate, mission growth, base redevelopment, and support for military families and veterans.