Military news

Honors

CARMEL – Coast Guard Group Southwest Harbor has named Petty Officer Robert M. Cepero of Carmel its 2004 Enlisted Person of the Year.

The award is presented to the most-deserving Coast Guard member serving on Maine’s eastern coastline, from Rockland to Eastport.

As head engineer at Station Southwest Harbor, Cepero realized the potential for improvements to both GPS navigation systems and engines on the small boats at Station Southwest Harbor. His recommendations will become standard practice throughout the Coast Guard in time.

Cepero’s engineering expertise allowed the station to earn the Coast Guard’s coveted Sumner I. Kimball Award, given only to the most ready and highest-performing Coast Guard stations.

Cepero has more than 12 years’ service with the Coast Guard. His honors include the Coast Guard Commendation Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, the Commandant’s Letter of Commendation Ribbon and four Good Conduct Medals.

Presidential Inauguration

WASHINGTON – Air Force Staff Sgt. Christina M. Wheeler is one of hundreds of U.S. Air Force members who participated in the 55th Presidential Inauguration on Jan. 20 at the nation’s Capitol.

The participants are assigned to the Air Force District of Washington and the 11th Wing at Bolling Air Force Base.

The airmen provided logistical and human resource support and performed a variety of duties to help secure Washington streets, memorials and government installations.

Wheeler, an optometry technician, has served in the military for more than seven years. She is the daughter of Richard W. and Julie Whitney of Orland, and a 1997 graduate of Bucksport High School.

Basic training

LAWTON, Okla. – Army Pvt. Matthew L. Bickford of Bucksport has graduated from basic combat military training at Fort Sill.

He is the son of William J. and Lisa J. Chambers of Bucksport, and a 2004 graduate of Bucksport High School.