Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Roderick A. Schwald has been named the U.S. Air Force Academy’s 2009 First Sergeant of the Year.

Selection was based on the individual’s exemplary duty performance, job knowledge, leadership qualities, teamwork, significant self-improvement, personal achievements, notable accomplishments, and community service and support.

Schwald, a first sergeant with 25 years of military service, is regularly assigned to the Commandant of Cadets, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo.

He is the son of Bob Schwald of Bothell.