Winkler-Martin Award

Congratulations to the 2024 Recipient:           

Susy Himelhoch

Winkler-Martin Memorial Award

Established by the MVMAA Board of Trustees in 1988, the Winkler Award is named in memory of Ralph H. Winkler, MVMAA President in 1983.  This award is presented annually to a person or organization that has served the Miami Valley Military Affairs Association in an exceptional way.

Ralph was a guiding influence when the MVMAA began in 1980.  In keeping with Ralph’s vision, determination and spirit of teamwork, this achievement is given each year to someone who works hard – someone who puts the goals of the organization ahead of any personal considerations – someone who is selfless, someone dedicated.

A light went out on the MVMAA Board of Directors with the passing of our past president Joe Martin in January 2009.  Joe was a long time member of the Board and the Fairborn Chamber representative forever!  His loss will be deeply felt not only by the Board, but by the Miami Valley and Wright Patterson communities as well.  Not only did Joe and his wife Sonia give financially, but their volunteerism cannot be replicated.  There was never an event or situation where Joe was not involved, or provided a bit of humor in everything he did.  He became known as “Uncle Joe” to all who knew him.  He was awarded accolades for his caring and giving ways and was humbled by each award.  He never sought the spotlight, but he was the light that made so many events shine.

To commemorate his dedication, the MVMAA Board has chosen to rename our most prestigious award to the Winkler-Martin Award.  This award honors someone who has given unselfishly of themselves in their support of the MVMAA and the military community as well.  Joe was a recipient of the award in 2007.  May his memory last forever and his enthusiasm continue in each and every one of us.

Previous Winkler-Martin Award Recipients:

2023 Jon Larrabee

2022 Mike Mayer

                                    2021 Cassie Barlow

                              2020     Holly Beard

                              2019     Sara Lommatzsch       

                              2018     Chris Stanley                                   

                              2017     Steve Goeman

                              2016     Ron Derksen

                              2015     Angel Lewis

                              2014     Bill Richard

                              2013     Jerry Pfeifer 

                              2012     Ralph Anderson

                              2011     The 445th Airlift Wing

                              2010     Woody Stroud

                              2009     Shiela Wallace

                              2008     Berman Layer

                              2007     Joe Martin

                              2006     Dale Grimes

                              2005     Mike Turner

                               2004     Carl Day and Maj. General Ed Mechenbier

                              2003     Patricia Tilton

                              2002     Teresa Lacy and Earl Bowen

                              2001     -- No Award --

                              2000     Vern Schaefer

                              1999     Maj John McCance

                              1998     Candy Prystaloski

                              1997     Jack Huelsman

                              1996     Margaret Ritter

                              1995     Bob Chiles

                              1994     Jennifer Wedekind

                              1993     Jeanne Eickman

                              1992     Evelyn Ferguson

                              1991     Emma Sheridan

                              1990     Vince Chalecki

                              1989     Nancy Lanier     

The name of the award recipient is kept secret each year until announced by the MVMAA President during the annual membership dinner. The plaque is inscribed with the words:

"For Service Above and Beyond..."