PINEVILLE, La., (KNOE 8 News) – The Louisiana National Guard's Combined Support Maintenance Shop was recently selected as a semifinalist for this year's Army Award for Maintenance Excellence and was visited by national evaluators in Pineville, late last month, for the next phase of the competition.
In Phase I of the competition, CSMS placed first in its size category at the National Guard Bureau. They were judged on a written presentation which counts for 30 percent of their total score.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 William Lyles and Chief Warrant Officer 4 Mike Kitts toured the 268,000 square foot facility, reviewed records and inventory, and interviewed Soldiers as part of evaluating the shop in 14 categories, including standard operating procedures, safety, licensing programs, training, awards programs, supply, arms room, security, hazmat, tools and test equipment, publications, and management reports.
The Phase II on-site evaluation counts for 70 percent.
The AAME program, established in 1982, is designed to reward excellence in maintenance as a means to improve and sustain readiness, improve efficiency and reduce waste, recognize outstanding maintenance accomplishments and initiatives, and to encourage competition.
Louisiana's CSMS last won the prestigious AAME in 2001.
The winners of the AAME will be announced in April at an awards banquet in Washington, DC.
Spc. Christopher Laborde (seated) and Sgt. 1st Class Robert Brister
