17-03-2025
Wichita Falls employee recognized for Sheppard Air Force Base efforts
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) — One City of Wichita Falls employee recently won the Community Partner of the Year Award, which thanks those in the community for being active advocates and forcing change that helps Sheppard Air Force Base.
The 82nd Mission Support Group awarded Karen Montgomery-Gagne the Community Partner of the Year. Gagne officially received this award on March 7 and will receive special recognition at the city council meeting on Tuesday, March 18.
Commander Colonel John Hollister from the 82nd Mission Support Group praised Gagne for being a 'critical component' of the mission's continued success.
'We wanted to take the time to ensure that we were thanking those in the community that help SAFB. Mrs. Montgomery-Gagne has been a constant advocate and force for change to help advance the training missions,' Hollister said. 'Specific instances were taking the lead drafting the grant package for the DEAAG, advancing language to the 4A/4B boards for economic assistance to both DEAAG and BASH weed control. In addition, she is continually in communications with multiple base agencies regarding everything from utilities to obstructions in the local air space.'
Gagne is the city's principal planner and has partnered with SAFB, the Sheppard Military Affairs Committee, and the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce on three different grant programs, including the Defense Economic Adjustment Assistant Grant Program.
'I feel very honored I have been given the opportunity both professionally and personally to be involved with Sheppard Air Force Base through the ENJJPT program,' Gagne said. 'I have enjoyed working with so many wonderful people at the 82nd while also getting to know all of the incredible people that come through Wichita Falls through ENJJPT. This community is very blessed to have this Air Force installation here locally.'
She and her family have been ENJJPT co-sponsors for the Italian delegation since 2013. They welcome new students when they arrive in Wichita Falls, which allows the students to connect locally.
Director of Development Services Terry Floyd expressed gratitude for Gagne and praised her hard work for SAFB and the entire community.
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