One 
of the Air Force’s 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2012, SMSgt. Luke W. Thompson is a combat controller with the Oregon Air National Guard’s 125th Special Tactics Squadron at Portland Airport. Thompson led an expeditionary special tactics squadron in Afghanistan, preparing 85 battlefield airmen to support two combined joint special operations task forces. He enabled 55 operators to conduct more than 1,200 combat missions, including capturing 241 high-value targets, and provided 50 combat controllers to conduct village stability operations behind enemy lines. His management also enabled joint terminal attack controllers to deliver 142 lethal air strikes to the enemy. He was the driving force in construction of a multimillion-dollar special tactics operations center to enhance combat capability in theater. He was also the architect for the ANG special tactics growth plan and engineered the first ANG special tactics mobilization, providing 27 battlefield airmen to US Central Command. Thompson’s home of record is Battle Ground, Wash. The Daily Report is shining the spotlight on each OAY. Also featured to date:
MSgt. Alan M. Braden SSgt. Cory T. Branham
MSgt. Sandra L. Plentzas SrA. Bryenna L. Brooks
TSgt. Brandon C. Bruner SrA. Matthew J. Butler