MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The Armed Forces Recreation Society has recently selected three base members here to be recipients of various Department of Defense-wide awards for outstanding customer service and implementation of the AFRS program.
According to MARADMIN 421/07, recipients of awards from Iwakuni are Col. Michael A. Dyer, former base commanding officer and winner of the Commander’s Award, Kari Hemund, aquatic director and winner of the Special Citation award, and Prakai Parsons, IronWorks Gym recreation attendant and winner of the Front Line award.
The Commander’s Award recognizes a commander that actively supports the AFRS program and constantly strives to improve quality of life for base members. The Special Citation recipient is not employed in the recreation field but has contributed greatly to the program. The Front Line award is awarded to recreation workers on military installations who are directly involved with customers and exemplify commitment to their work and pride in service.
Parsons, native of Sakon Nakhon, Thailand, is one of six recipients of the Front Line award this year. Out of 152 candidates throughout the Department of Defense, 60 were recognized.
“Ms. Parsons is an extraordinary employee and I am so proud to have her as a part of this team,” said Curtis L. Brown, IronWorks Gym athletic director and Chicago native. “Since she’s been working here, I have only known her to be a hard-working professional. She is truly a treat to our staff.”
On weekdays, Parsons, along with other recreation attendants prepare IronWorks Gym before it opens at 4 a.m. Their responsibilities include cleaning the weight room, preparing towels and setting up the aerobic areas.
“For nearly two years I have done this job because I have a great team and I love our customers,” said Parsons. “It is so nice to return to work every morning because I know the customers are service members and will treat me with respect.”
Parsons is the longest-working recreation attendant at the gym. Since her first day, her working hours of 3 a.m. to noon have not changed, and neither has her enthusiasm.
“It’s so nice to win awards just for doing your job,” laughed Parsons. “The salary is nice and so is this award, but I truly like what I do and so I will continue to serve.”
According to the AFRS web site, the Front Line award is won by recommendations and customer service reviews from the employee’s local recreation management.
“Working with her is so much fun because she’s very funny and has a great personality,” said Saori Conner, IronWorks Gym recreation attendant and Hiroshima native. “She and I are always laughing and joking, and it makes the early mornings more enjoyable. She definitely deserves this award.”
Iwakuni award recipients are scheduled to attend an awards ceremony September 24 in Indianapolis, Ind.