Frank Baker, Family Readiness Coordinator for Savannah’s 165^th Airlift Wing, was selected as the State Employee of the Year for Georgia for 2002.  Baker, a veteran of the Georgia Air National Guard, was presented the award at ceremonies in Atlanta attended by Governor and Mrs. Sonny Perdue.  Accompanying Baker was Major General David B. Poythress, Georgia’s Adjutant General, Major General William Searcy, Commander of the Georgia Air National Guard, Brigadier General Terry Nesbitt, Commander of the Georgia Army National Guard and Colonel Steven Westgate, Commander of the 165^th Airlift Wing in Savannah.

Baker was recognized for his important contributions in the category of community service, one of seven categories for the state honor.  Nominated by co-workers,  Baker, as Family Readiness Coordinator is instrumental in assisting families of Georgia National Guardsmen deployed around the world.

 A Savannah native, Baker was the public affairs officer for the 165^th Airlift Wing for seven years prior to moving to Headquarters, Georgia Air National Guard at Dobbins.  He retired as a colonel in 1998. He remains active in many Savannah civic clubs and organizations.