HILL AIR FORCE BASE — On Feb. 19, 2015, Bruce Young was posthumously awarded the American Society of Military Comptrollers, Chapter Leadership Award for 2013 from the ASMC National Headquarters in Arlington Virginia.

Bret Poll, 75th Air Base Wing deputy comptroller, presented this special award as Utah Chapter ASMC leaders and comptroller squadron members were on hand to commemorate the event. 

This honor is the second time Young has garnered this award from the national committee. The first award was in 2011, after Young orchestrated the turnaround of the local Utah chapter when he served as its president. His efforts to increase the chapter membership and the volunteer hours resulted in unprecedented achievements for the local chapter. Numerous base and community organizations benefited from the volunteer services that Young organized as the ASMC President and volunteer committee chairman. 

In 2013, Young was diagnosed with lung cancer. He valiantly fought the aggressive disease and led several fundraising teams in the fight against cancer. His support of cancer research organizations and fundraising events began long before his diagnosis. He championed the cause through Combined Federal Campaign donations, fundraisers and local Relay for Life events. 

Young passed away in his home on Aug. 2, 2013, with his loving wife of 28 years by his side. His wife and daughter continue the tradition of sponsoring a team in the Weber County Relay for Life event each year.

Young was a retired USAF technical sergeant and worked in civil service for 12 years as a financial manager in the 75th Comptroller Squadron. 

Under his leadership, the Utah ASMC chapter reached its highest participation level ever in volunteer hours in 2011. Young was elected ASMC Utah Chapter president from 2010 to 2011, while continuing to serve as the volunteer committee chair and leading the charge in new member recruitment. 

His valiant battle with cancer drew many to his side in fundraising for worthy causes and working outside their own comfort zones. His talents and love for his wingmen were also demonstrated often as he organized many squadron and chapter functions, even performing as Santa Claus. He particularly loved this role, growing out his white beard and dedicating his time to be there for children in need.

Young was also recognized in 2010 by the local ASMC chapter with the Utah Chapter Flores Award, as its most outstanding member, providing the most individual support to the local chapter. This chapter award was just a precursor to the efforts that he would yet be noted for, rightly so, by the National ASMC organization. Our hearts and helping hands go out to you, Bruce, as we strive to continue your legacy of devotion and service to the military and civilian communities that we are all a part of. 

Thanks for your example and your life of service.