ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) -- Air Force officials selected the service’s top enlisted members, naming the Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2026.
The recipients distinguished themes through exceptional leadership, superior performance and unwavering decision to mission accomplishment. Their achievements reflect the highest standards and embody the Air Force Core Values.
The Outstanding Airmen of the Year (listed alphabetically) are:
Senior Airman Alessandro Bianchini, Air Force Special Operations Command
Senior Airman Nathan J. Carver, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa
Tech. Sgt. Kailey L. DeLage, Air Force Materiel Command
Tech. Sgt. George A. Distel, Air Education and Training Command
Senior Master Sgt. Michael J. Falleroni, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa
Senior Airman Logan A. Grindstaff, Air Force Reserve Command
Senior Airman Sierra F. Mueller, Pacific Air Forces
Master Sgt. Peter J. Nunes, Air Force Global Strike Command
Tech. Sgt. Michael A. Roybal, U.S. Space Force Combat Forces Command
Master Sgt. Andrew L. Schaeffer, Pacific Air Forces
Staff Sgt. Brianna D. St. Lawrence-Brody, Air National Guard
Master Sgt. Catherine L. Young, Air Combat Command
The Air and Space Forces established the Outstanding Airmen of the Year program in 1956 to honor the hard work and professionalism of the Air Force’s enlisted force. Each year’s recipients demonstrate superior leadership, exemplary job performance, community involvement and personal achievement over the preceding 12 months. The 2026 recipients will be recognized at AFA’s national convention later this year.
The winners are authorized to wear the Outstanding Airman of the Year Ribbon with the bronze service star device. They are also authorized to wear the OAY badge for one year from the date of formal presentation.