The awards feature two categories: distinguished and meritorious. Nominations are evaluated by boards of private citizens and approved by the president. Only 5 percent, who make up about .03 percent of the total civilian federal workforce of Senior Executive Service employees, may receive the Presidential Meritorious Rank Award. Only 1 percent can receive the Presidential Distinguished Rank Award.
Distinguished rank recipients receive a lump-sum payment of 35 percent of their basic pay, while meritorious rank recipients receive 20 percent of basic pay. All receive a framed certificate signed by the president.
Fore and Gonzalez were recognized in the Meritorious Senior Executive category, and Chona and Schneider were honored in the Meritorious Senior Level Professional category.
“Being a part of the Air Force family has provided me a unique opportunity to conduct and lead foundational science and technology that embodies both tremendous scientific challenges and important implications for our national security,” Chona said. “Knowing that you are creating a robust knowledge base, in terms of both scientific understanding and people that will continue to serve the Air Force’s needs long after you are no longer professionally active, is an awesome feeling,” he said.
Gonzalez said he was humbled to receive the award and thankful for his team.
“It is a great honor to be recognized with this award,” he said. “It’s truly a reflection of the amazing team that I have the privileged of leading. Without a doubt, they are the best at what they do.”
About the Author