Corporal Kristopher Henderson has been awarded the Max Cowin Award for the most outstanding contribution made to No. 87 Squadron.
Each year, the squadron presents the award to the person, or small team, who most significantly contributes to the reputation, value and capability of No. 87 Squadron in its support of Air Force's mission.
During the 2021-2022 year Corporal Henderson displayed exemplary performance in the execution of his duties as an air intelligence analyst with No. 81 Tactical Intelligence Flight.
His dedication to providing high quality mission intelligence support to Air Combat Group directly contributed to advancing the development of the F-35A Lightning II post-mission analysis process and has enhanced the integration of No. 81 Wing assets within the broader Joint Strike Fighter enterprise.
These efforts have assisted in making Australia's F-35A program world leading amongst other operational F-35A users in terms of the maturity and depth of integration of mission intelligence support.
Despite an exceptionally strong field, Commander Officer No. 87 Squadron Wing Commander Jarrod Foster did not hesitate in selecting Corporal Henderson to receive the award.
"Corporal Henderson's technical knowledge is of the highest order," Wing Commander Foster said.
"He has applied his mission intelligence skills to enhancing intelligence reporting processes and has laid a strong foundation for the future workforce by developing training packages for the mission intelligence fighter intelligence qualification course.
"His efforts have not only represented the intelligence community with distinction, but also thrust Australia's F-35A program to prominence amongst our partner nations."
Corporal Henderson was grateful to be recognised for the results that both he and his team have achieved.
"It has been humbling to be acknowledged for my team's contribution to F-35A mission support," Corporal Henderson said.
"It has been extremely rewarding work to be involved from the beginning with conceptualised workflows, developing training and then implementing on exercise."
