Arkansas City fire department honored for support of Guard, Reserve

  • Published
  • By Tech Sgt. Brannen Parrish
  • 931st Air Refueling Group Public Affairs
ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. --  An Arkansas City fire fighter was honored for his support of the Air Force Reserve during a ceremony at the Arkansas City Fire Department, today.

Lieutenant Col. Jeffrey Pickard, Deputy Commander for Maintenance, 931st Air Refueling Group presented firefighter Ken Corcran with the Patriot Award on behalf of Col. Edsel Frye, commander, 931st ARG and Lieutenant Col. Erin Manning, commander 931st Civil Engineering Squadron.

Mr. Corcran received the award for his support of Guard and Reserve members in the department. The award, sponsored by the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, recognizes employers who support Guard and Reserve members under their charge.

Staff Sgt. Edward Allred, a civil engineer with the 931st Civil Engineering Squadron nominated Mr. Corcran for the award. Sergeant Allred is currently deployed to the area of responsibility.

"I come from a long line of military in my family," said Mr. Corcran, who is a veteran of the Marine Corps and Navy. "When you support somebody that's defending your freedoms, for them to turn around and recognize you, that's really an honor."

Shortly after completing the requirements to gain a position with the Arkansas City Fire and EMT Department, Sergeant Allred learned that he would be activated for deployment. Mr. Corcran agreed to hold a place for him until his return. Over the course of the deployment Sergeant Allred and Mr. Corcran have remained in contact.

"He calls and we talk once, sometimes twice, per week," said Mr. Corcran.

"I just want to say that this is a great thing," said Colonel Pickard, "For you to offer Sergeant Allred a job and hold it for him shows the type of individual you are and the type of organization you have."