ARLINGTON, VA., March 22, 2023 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have announced that Marine Master Sergeant Kevin Haunschild has been recognized with the “Marine of the Year” award for his exceptional service to his country. This prestigious award has been presented for the past 22 years and honors one outstanding military member from each branch of service who has demonstrated exemplary military service going beyond the call of duty. This year’s award ceremony will be held in Washington D.C. on July 18, 2023.
MSgt Kevin Haunschild, attached to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, distinguished himself with his confident and tireless efforts as he coordinated tower and ground air traffic control for the largest noncombatant evacuation operation in military history. His exceptional service led to the evacuation of 144,000 eligible noncombatants, as well as the evacuation of military personnel from more than 23 nations. Haunschild faced multiple time-sensitive, potentially deadly situations during his deployment in Kabul, Afghanistan, and his quick thinking and selfless leadership skills made a significant difference in the success of the mission.
Haunschild’s extraordinary service to his country did not go unnoticed. In January 2023, he was awarded the Bronze Star, which is given to individuals who distinguish themselves by heroic or meritorious achievement or service.
“We are delighted to recognize MSgt Kevin Haunschild as the Marine of the Year,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of Military Times Foundation. “His dedication to his country and his service in Afghanistan was nothing short of exceptional. His actions and leadership during the noncombatant evacuation operation were critical to its success. It is with great honor that we present him with this award.”
The Military Times Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) established to recognize, salute and highlight the exemplary service of active duty personnel serving in each branch of the U.S. Armed Services.
The annual Military Times Service Members of the Year Award has grown into a much-anticipated event. The awards ceremony has become one of Washington D.C.’s A-list events attended by congressional, military and community leaders. Since 2019 Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have donated over $15 million in cash and media value to support over 150 military and veteran service organizations, such as Fisher House, Children of Fallen Patriots, TAPS, Objective Zero and others.
The full story about Master Sergeant Kevin Haunschild can be found on MarineCorpsTimes.com
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Kelly Facer
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servicemembersoftheyear.org
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