Keesler in top 2 for Installation Excellence Award Published Nov. 28, 2012 By 011112 KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- "Congratulations are in order for the entire base, as the Pentagon selected Keesler Air Force Base as one of two top finalists in the Air Force for the Commander-in-Chief's Installation Excellence Award," said Brig. Gen. Bradley Spacy, 81st Training Wing commander in an email to base personnel. This award recognizes the top installations that demonstrate enhanced productivity, dedication to continual improvement and other innovative accomplishments that create and sustain base operations to support the mission of the United States Air Force. "Being selected in the Air Force's top two installations is an incredible honor, and yet again I am proud to see you get recognized for your efforts," the general said. Air Education and Training Command commander, Gen. Edward A. Rice Jr. announced Keesler as the AETC winner of the Commander-In-Chief's Annual Award for Installation Excellence Oct. 22. "Keesler AFB represents the 'Best of the Best' in Air Education and Training Command and is truly deserving of this recognition," said Rice, in a nomination letter to Headquarters Air Force. "Keesler's leaders and personnel have created an environment promoting innovation and pride in ownership to enhance base-level services, facilities, and quality-of-life." Keesler will compete against McConnel Air Force Base for the award. Both bases will be visited by the final selection board in January. The winning base will receive a $1 million award to invest in a quality-of-life element of the base, such as its fitness facilities or dorms.