MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Ryan Hardeman, 42d Air Base Wing Inspector General Office director of complaints resolutions, has been named November’s Crusader of the Month for his outstanding contribution supporting the wing.
Hardeman has served in the IG office for six years, overseeing the Air Force Complaints resolution and fraud, waste and abuse programs for Maxwell Air Force Base and Gunter Annex. His work directly supports a community of more than 42,000 active-duty members, reservists, civilians and contractors.
“I get to help people at a personal level,” said Hardeman. “When someone comes to the IG for assistance, they do not know where to turn for resolution of their issue. I enjoy being able to assist in difficult times to get them whole and back to the mission.”
Hardeman’s path to service began in Thomaston, Georgia, where growing up in a small town sparked his desire to build a future beyond home.
“The Air Force provided a means to set out on my own and start a career,” Hardeman said.
After retiring from the military, he continued his service through civil service, viewing it as an excellent opportunity for separated or retired Air Force members to remain connected and keep serving.
During his Air Force career, Hardeman discovered a passion for the IG mission. His time in uniform included work in inspections, exercises and complaints experiences that shaped his decision to return to the IG field as a civilian.
“I really enjoyed my time as an IG while in uniform,” Hardeman said. “When the opportunity came along after I retired, my current position was a perfect fit for me.”
Hardeman draws on nearly three decades of experience enlisted, officer and civilian to guide those who seek IG assistance. He calls this his most rewarding contribution.
“I pull from a well-stocked and deep toolbox of experience,” Hardeman said. “When I was a staff sergeant, my shop chief told me to ‘hustle when you are young and give it back when you’re wearing a sleeve full of stripes.’ The giving it back part is the most rewarding.”
Outside of work, Hardeman is a self-described family man who enjoys spending time with his children and grandchildren and following sports. He credits his grandfather, a Marine who fought in the Pacific during World War II, as his greatest role model.
“My grandfather taught me discipline, drive and hard work,” Hardeman said. “When I’ve experienced challenges, I think of him continuing to move forward on those beaches. It has always pushed me forward.”
Hardeman encourages Airmen interested in the IG career field to start early by learning the Commander’s Inspection Program, participating in wing exercises and serving as a self-assessment program manager.
“Once in, the sky is the limit,” Hardeman said. “If you have the eyes, ears and nose for compliance, come join us.”
The title “Crusader” carries deep historical meaning within the 42nd ABW. In 1943, while deployed to the Free French islands of New Caledonia, Airmen of the 42nd Bomb Group earned the nickname Crusaders from their French allies. In tribute to this partnership, the Airmen painted the Cross of Lorraine on their B-25 bombers. That shared legacy and symbol of camaraderie continue to inspire and define the 42nd ABW today.