BANGOR – Master Sgt. Kimberly Files has been selected as the Maine Air National Guard First Sergeant of the Year, 2006. During award ceremonies in Augusta, Files received the award from Brig. Gen. Don Reynolds, deputy adjutant general for Maine.

Other awards were presented to her from senior officer and enlisted members of the Maine Air National Guard. As Maine’s recipient, her name will be forwarded to the National Guard Bureau for consideration as the Air National Guard First Sergeant of the Year.

The accompanying citation with the award states, “Master Sergeant Kimberly A. Files distinguished herself as First Sergeant, 101st Logistics Readiness Squadron, Bangor International Airport, Bangor, Maine from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2006. Sergeant Files’ unwavering efforts ensured that squadron members deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom were appropriately awarded the Army Combat Action Badge. Her infectious drive for a more fit squadron resulted in an extremely active fitness program and a 100 percent participation rate. Sergeant Files was an outstanding representative within the community by co-chairing a Veterans Day Remembrance Assembly, conducting flag folding ceremonies and participating in several charitable events. The distinctive accomplishments of Sergeant Files reflect great credit upon herself, the Air National Guard and the United States Air Force.”

Files has been a representative to the Jobs for Maine Graduates annual career day in Augusta, participates in military parade activities in the Bangor region and supports military physical fitness programs for Maine Air National Guard members. She is active in other community events, including the Breast Cancer Walk and assisting with fundraising efforts for families in need in the local area.

Files is a registered nurse and is pursuing a master’s degree in the family and community nurse practitioner program at Husson College. She and her husband, Christopher, live in Dedham with their three children.