MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The 42nd Air Base Wing named U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Alexandra Edwards, 42nd Medical Group commander support staff noncommissioned officer in charge, "Crusader of the Month" at the end of November, for her exceptional service and leadership in support of the 42nd MDG.
The wing’s Crusader of the Month highlight recognizes outstanding members who contribute significant efforts toward Team Maxwell’s mission, vision and priorities.
Edwards is responsible for managing the commander’s support staff, which involves ensuring timely completion of critical personnel programs such as promotion packages, decorations, annual reports, and other administrative functions supporting the unit. Recently, she has stepped up her leadership role, due to the group commander’s executive officer being tasked with a last-minute deployment.
“At first it was a learning curve for me; I’ve never been an exec to a commander before,” said Edwards. “After some time in the seat, I started to feel more comfortable. Giving myself grace is what I try and make sure I do with anything new.”
Edwards not only excels in her professional capacity of leading her team in the command section but is a force multiplier. Edwards stepped into the responsibility of serving as a certified CPR instructor, a skill set outside of her specialty training, and taught 14 CPR classes over the last year.
Additionally, Edwards has enhanced the quality-of-life for other airmen in the medical group by invigorating the group booster club. This past October she organized a family-friendly evening event called the “Boo Bash,” which was attended by more than 100 staff and family members. Her innovation in the booster club revitalized the coffers of the club by more than 1200% this year, according to group leadership.
The combined efforts of Edwards professionalism, and dedication to improving quality-of-life for the medical group make he a valued member of the 42nd Air Base Wing team.
“Staff Sgt. Edwards will always find the answer to any situation or challenge you place in front of her,” said Tech. Sgt. Amber Shepherd, NCOIC of Medical Readiness. “Her positive attitude lights up our Command Section, and I’m so glad that she is one of the first faces that new staff members engage with, she is a model representative.”
The title of "Crusader" carries deep historical significance within the 42nd ABW. During their deployment on the Free French Island of New Caledonia in 1943, the Airmen of the 42nd Bomb Group were honored with the nickname "Crusaders" by their French allies, proudly adopting the Cross of Lorraine symbol on their B-25 Bombers. Ther legacy continues through the 42nd ABW.
Edwards embodies the spirit of the Crusaders through her dedication, leadership and excellence. Her contributions have not only advanced the mission of the 42nd MDG but have also left a lasting impact on the entire Air Force community here.