The Nevada Air National Guard recently recognized its top performers in a ceremony attended by Gov. Brian Sandoval, Brig. Gen. Bill Burks, Brig. Gen. David Snyder, Col. Jeffrey Burkett and other dignitaries.

The Adjutant General's Silver State Sentinel Award for Excellence is presented to individuals whose service is considered above and beyond, and who have had a significant, positive impact on the state of Nevada. The Commander's Excellence award is for airmen nominated by senior leadership.

They're individuals who have diligently and quietly gone about doing quality work. The Chief's Council Award recognizes members for outstanding contribution to the Nevada Air National Guard. The Diversity Award is for individuals or groups who innovate, inspire and work across organizational borders to strengthen and grow the entire diversity sector.

The Air Force Lance P. Sijan Leadership Award is a national level award. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest qualities of leadership in their jobs and in their lives.

Awards were also presented to the Airman, Non-Commissioned Officer, Senior Non-Commissioned Officer, Company Grade Officer, First Sergeant and Honor Guard members of the year at a dinner event.

Top honors for the Airman of the Year award went to Senior Airman Sean Bird. In the Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year category, Tech. Sgt. Christa Morter got the nod. The Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the year is Master Sgt. Joe Henle and the Company Grade Officer of the year is Capt. Chris Leroy. All four winners hail from the 152nd Operations Support Flight in Reno. From the 152nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, Master Sgt. Jordan Bean was selected as the First Sergeant of the Year, and the Honor Guard Member of the Year is Staff Sgt. Bartley O'Toole of Fallon from the 152nd Operations Support Flight.