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Bolling Airman wins Wrightson Award

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman R. Michael Longoria
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON --  Rima Silenas, 11th Wing Judge Advocate Office, won the Air Force District of Washington Outstanding Civilian Attorney of the Year Award, also known as the Wrightson Award, for the third time in as many years.

"It's a gift, a blessing to know that I have an outstanding attorney and division chief in my General Law Division who consistently gets the job done with excellence," said Lt. Col. Dawn M. K. Zoldi, 11th Wing Staff Judge Advocate. "An employee like Rima is every boss' dream."

A few key accomplishments that led to Ms. Silenas winning this award include tackling 756 legal reviews across the spectrum of the wing mission, tracking the status of Law of Armed Conflict training for more than 11,000 Airmen in the National Capitol Region and serving 335 clients with 670 documents saving Airmen $73,000 in legal fees.

However, Ms. Silenas doesn't see the award as an individual achievement.

"It's recognition of the team," she said. "I'd get nowhere without the whole office pulling together and getting things done."

Ms. Silenas will go forward and compete for an award at The Judge Advocate General level. A panel will meet and make the decision in early April. Her boss seems to like her chances at the TJAG level.

"This is a three-peat, hat trick, trifecta for Rima at the AFDW level," said Colonel Zoldi. "We hope she competes well for the TJAG-level award. She is very deserving."

John A. Everhard established this award in memory of James O. Wrightson, Jr., who formerly held the position of Chief, Military Affairs Division, Office of The Judge Advocate General, United States Air Force. The annual winner is the civilian who has been selected as the most outstanding civilian attorney of the year based upon demonstrated excellence, initiative and devotion to duty.

Civilian attorneys employed by or serving with The Judge Advocate General's Department are eligible for this award. A trophy recognizing the winner is displayed at the Air Force Judge Advocate General School. 

The selected attorney receives an award certificate and plaque.