Diamond Sharp Airmen: Accomplished aviator

Editor's note: This feature is the 18th in a series of Air Commando spotlights at Cannon. The airmen being highlighted are recent Diamond Sharp award winners. Diamond Sharp is a monthly program where airmen are recognized by wing leadership and first sergeants for their hard work and achievements.

U.S. Air Force photo: Airman 1st Class Eboni Reece

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Cecil Moran, 16th Special Operations Squadron loadmaster, poses during a photo shoot at Cannon Air Force Base. Moran was recently recognized as a Diamond Sharp Award winner for March and was highlighted for his hard work and achievements.

"Growing up, I always made it a point to say that I would never be a teacher and I would never join the military," stated Airman 1st Class Cecil Moran, 16th Special Operations Squadron loadmaster. "I ended up pursuing a degree in elementary education and obviously. I enlisted in the Air Force as well!"

As ironic as it is, Moran's enlistment in the Air Force and assignment to the 16 SOS allows him to contribute to Cannon's mission each and every day.

A loadmaster's responsibilities reach far beyond computing weight and balance of aerial assets or supervising the loading and unloading of cargo, vehicles and people.

"As a loadmaster, one of your main jobs is to be the eyes of the aircraft," explained Moran. "I constantly scan to look out for potential threats to the crew and plane."

During an in-flight emergency, Moran performed self-aid buddy care on an aircrew member who was having chest pains until paramedics arrived. This action prevented possible loss of life or other health problems for the fellow Air Commando.

"Performing emergency procedures when necessary is an additional task that loadmasters are responsible for," stated Moran. "That is the most crucial and challenging part of my job."

As a loadmaster, Moran is following in the footsteps of many Air Commandos before him who played a key role in his squadron.

"The 16 SOS is like a brotherhood and the heritage is so strong," stated Moran. "There are big shoes to fill in every crew position which pushes you to study and strive for knowledge."

Along with the rich heritage of the 16 SOS, Moran notes a special person in his life as the reason he consistently excels in his daily obligations.

"My wife is my backbone," stated Moran. "She has always kept me on track and pushed me to do my best in everything!"

Moran was one of the Diamond Sharp award recipients for the month of March. His achievements both on and off duty earned him this recognition.

"Integrity first is the Air Force's number one Core Value," explained Moran. "Doing the right thing, even when no one is looking, is so essential to being a well-rounded airman."