Master Sgt. Richard S. Avery III, of Denver, a member of the Wyoming Air National Guard's 153rd Logistic Readiness Squadron, received the Air Force Commendation Medal (First Oak Leaf Cluster) on Oct. 1.

Avery distinguished himself while assigned to the 153rd Logistics Readiness Squadron, Wyoming Air National Guard, Cheyenne, Wyo., from Feb. 15, 2002 to Sept. 15, 2002.  During this period, Avery's professional skills, knowledge, and dedication to duty resulted in significant contributions to improving the 153rd Airlift Wing's combat readiness and mission capability.  He demonstrated initiative, professional ability and keen foresight in his performance as a fuels journeyman.  His experience and knowledge within the fuels career field contributed immeasurably to the success of refueling operations while deployed to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, from February 2002 thru June 2002.  The distinctive accomplishments of Avery reflect credit upon himself, the Air National Guard, and the United States Air Force.

Avery is product manager with Kaiser Permanente in Aurora, Colo., and has two daughters.  They reside in Denver.