Blue Suit winner receives scholarship Published March 22, 2022 By Randy Martin, Air Force Recruiting Service Public Affairs Air Force Recruiting Service JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- A Total Force recruiter and Airman received a Columbia Southern University scholarship during the annual celebration of Air Force Recruiting Service’s best recruiters. It was the capstone of a week that honored recruiters and their loved ones from throughout Air Force Recruiting Service. Master Sgt. Alexander James, 350th Recruiting Squadron and Air Force Reserve member, competed for the scholarship by submitting a 500-word essay concerning his goals and personal development. The CSU full scholarship covers one degree program and can be applied directly to James’ tuition for up to 60 hours or 36 consecutive months in the degree program. CSU allows its scholarship to be transferred to James’ spouse. James was joined by his wife Amanda and representatives of the college on stage in front of more than 100 people including honorees and invited guests inside the Gruene Events Center at New Braunfels, Texas, March 10, 2022. The scholarship was presented by the college in recognition of the invaluable work of Air Force and Space Force recruiters as well as their families during the 43rd annual Operation Blue Suit celebration March 7-10, 2022. James was one of 18 recruiters who competed and were selected as fiscal 2021’s Operation Blue Suit winners. The Blue Suit winners were chosen by their units based on accomplishments in support of the Total Force recruitment mission. “We’re all very proud of Master Sgt. James,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jackie Sanchez, Officer Accessions flight chief for the 350th RCS at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. “He embodies the Air Force core values. His applicants all know that they can go to him even after they’re in their units with any questions or concerns. His strongest character trait is that he puts service before self but he’s also very focused on family. He’s already made his goal for this year, but he’s not comfortable with that. He always strives for more.” Sanchez said that James will be a strong competitor for Operation Blue Suit in 2022. “He won’t mind the trip back to Texas.” “Operation Blue Suit was an amazing opportunity for my wife and I,” James said. “Major General Thomas and his staff did an amazing job of making us feel very appreciated. The development and mentoring during the week was unmatched!” The 350th RCS is part of the 367th Recruiting Group.