Telling the story

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt Jodi L. Kiminski
  • 148th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Duluth, MINN. --  148th Fighter Wing journalist, Tech. Sgt. Scott Herrington, has been named the Air National Guard's "Outstanding New Writer of the Year" for 2011.

The annual media contest recognizes outstanding public affairs achievements across the National Guard.

"The recognition feels great," said Tech. Sgt. Herrington when asked about his award. "I wasn't sure if I'd even be competitive, so it was quite a surprise to be selected."

Herrington, a graduate of Hermantown High School, has been a journalist with the 148th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office since 2010. Prior to that, he spent six years working as a computer systems controller in the 148th Fighter Wing Communications Squadron.

"Tech. Sgt. Herrington is a tremendous asset to the 148th Public Affairs team," stated Capt. Julie Grandaw, 148th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Officer. "He is a very motivated and talented journalist who tells the Air National Guard/Air Force story, taking the initiative to look for opportunities to do this without being asked."

Herrington is responsible for writing articles and press releases, base website and Facebook page administration, is the creative design lead for the On Five quarterly wing publication, and provides media escort duties and photography, as needed. He is a Distinguished Honor Graduate from the U.S. Defense Information School Basic Journalism course, has been recognized by the wing commander for his exceptional work on the On Five, and his articles have been picked up by numerous print and online media including airforce-magazine.com, minnesotanationalguard.org and vfs27.com (Virtual Fighter Squadron 27).

He says one of the greatest aspects of being a journalist is being able to tell the stories of the men and women that dedicate their lives to their country, their community and to each other.

"In my job, I'm allowed access to all parts of the base, and I'm able to get the behind the curtain view of things like being behind the scene at an award ceremony or photographing an evaluation team throwing smoke grenades at a practice convoy. Plus, I get to learn the history of the 148th, and the more I learn the greater my appreciation is for how successful the base has become. I'm honored to be a Bulldog."

Herrington is representing the Air National Guard and will be competing at the Air Force level.