Diamond Sharp returns to Spangdahlem Published April 1, 2014 By Senior Airman Alexis Siekert 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Recognition for a job well done can let Airmen know they are appreciated. Seventeen Airmen received a certificate and coin during a Diamond Sharp Award ceremony at Club Eifel at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, March 31, 2014. First sergeants award the Diamond Sharp recognition on a quarterly basis to two Airmen within their squadrons. The award's name is a play on words referring to the diamond on the first sergeants' insignia and a metaphor for the recipient's job performance. "Recognition is important because it validates people's effort and contributions," said Master Sgt. Kristy Frost, 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant. "I believe it is essential to morale so people know that their work is valued and does not go unnoticed. When people are recognized for their efforts, they will continue to strive for excellence." U.S. Air Force Col. David Julazadeh, 52nd Fighter Wing commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Matt Grengs, 52nd FW command chief, presented the awards. "I was just told by the first sergeant to meet him for breakfast, his treat," said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Scott Weeks, 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter from Green Bay, Wis., and award recipient. "When I saw all the other people and their first sergeants, I got pretty excited. I had no idea this was an award breakfast, so it was a great surprise. This is the first award I've received since being here and it feels pretty good." First sergeants will continue to use the Diamond Sharp Award to recognize Spangdahlem's sharpest troops for next quarter. To nominate a top performer, supervisors and coworkers are encouraged to contact their unit first sergeant. To see photos of the Sabers recongnized, visit the Spangdahlem Flickr page at https://www.flickr.com/photos/spangdahlemairbase.