A public affairs specialist with the 158th Fighter Wing was recently named the Air National Guard's Outstanding Communication Civilian for 2020.

Julie Shea now represents the Air National Guard at the Air Force service level against the active duty Air Force and Air Force Reserve components.

“Julie’s performance has been nothing short of tremendous,” said Army Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, the Vermont National Guard adjutant general. “Telling our story is so important and Julie does it every day. We are lucky to have her as part of our organization.”

The Air Force Public Affairs Communication Excellence Awards program recognizes Air Force individuals in the Air Force, Space Force, and joint organizations for excellence in communication efforts, outstanding achievement and innovation.

“Our wing is so proud of Julie and this deserving, distinguished recognition of her as a communications expert and professional at the national level,” said 158th Fighter Wing Commander Col. David Shevchik. “Julie has enabled and fostered both community engagement efforts and internal messaging to our team through a challenging environment, providing a vital connection within our team and with our communities.”

Shea, a resident of Underhill, serves as a photojournalist for the 158th Fighter Wing. Her coverage focusing on the wing’s transition from the F-16 Fighting Falcon to the F-35A Lightning II highlighted her submission for the nomination. She also covered Vermont’s continued participation in the State Partnership Program with Senegal and North Macedonia during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can find Shea’s work by visiting: https://www.dvidshub.net/portfolio/1630511/julie-shea.