BANGOR – Senior Airman Stephen Morrell, a Newport resident and 2005 Nokomis High School graduate stationed in Bangor, was selected as the Outstanding Airman of the Year, 2006, for the Maine Air National Guard.

During ceremonies in Augusta, Morrell was recognized for his accomplishments by Maine Air National Guard officers and enlisted members.

The citation states, “Senior Airman Stephen M. Morrell distinguished himself by outstanding achievement as a member of the 101st Security Forces Squadron, Bangor International Airport, Bangor, Maine. During this period, Airman Morrell’s dedication to duty, outstanding professionalism, and superior job performance were instrumental in his selection as the Maine Air National Guard Outstanding Airman of the Year. While deployed to New Mexico in September 2006 in support of the National Guard Association of the United States Conference, Senior Airman Morrell was recognized for his outstanding performance and dedication to duty as entry controller, law enforcement and security patrol, and VIP security officer. Airman Morrell is an extremely valuable team player with a deep commitment and dedication to his unit. The distinctive accomplishments of Airman Morrell reflect credit upon himself, his unit, the Maine Air National Guard and the State of Maine.”

Morrell’s nomination will be forwarded as a candidate for the 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year 2006. Candidates are selected from the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserves and the United States Air Force.

Morrell is a part-time state employee with the 101st Security Forces Squadron in Bangor. A Husson College and Community College of the Air Force student pursuing degrees and a career in the criminal justice field, he participates in the Special Olympics Torch Run and Family Program activities at the 101st Air Refueling Wing in Bangor.