F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- What does it mean to win Outstanding Young Judge Advocate of the Year? The award selection requirements may have strict conditions about what is written on a Department of the Air Force Form 1206, but to be selected also means to always prioritize the mission, to have strong leadership skills, and to professionally represent the Air Force day in and day out.
Maj. Filomena Gehart, 90th Missile Wing Deputy Staff Judge Advocate, has been selected as the Outstanding Young Judge Advocate of the Year for her tireless work inside and outside of the Air Force. Having a long list of accomplishments, Mena explained that to win this award, a JAG must consistently work hard and give sound advice year after year.
She demonstrated excellence in her primary duty by providing key advice on the largest strikes in the area of responsibility within the last five years in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, and advising on airstrikes employing 220 weapons against 85 targets on an adversary militia group, leading to the deterrence of attacks on troops.
“I have never viewed awards as a priority of mine, but I am humbled and honored by this one,” said Gehart. “It motivates me to find new ways to better the Air Force. We are in a constantly evolving environment, and I am excited to do what I can to play a small part in helping prepare us.”
Mena credits her growth from her upbringing. Born and raised in a small town in Michigan, she grew up alongside her three older brothers. Her father owned a parts manufacturing shop, and her mother was a special education teacher. Her parents always emphasized the importance of patience and hard work, leaving Mena with an impression that she had big shoes to fill.
Liking the way that law can spark positive change and help others, Mena decided to pursue law as a career. She knew she wanted to be a lawyer before she wanted to be a JAG. Working her way through law school, she realized working at a law firm was not a good fit.
“I realized early on in law school that I did not want to work for a firm, and I was excited about how the Air Force valued fitness, family, and community,” said Gehart. “I did not see that at private law firms, and the people I knew at those firms made a lot of money, but were not happy with their careers. I wanted to give back to my country, and I wanted a career with purpose. I saw law as a way I could do that.”
After completing officer training, Mena started her JAG career in the legal office advising command teams on any and all legal issues that came up across the base. This includes military justice, such as holding Airmen accountable, and civil law, non-criminal issues such as reviewing contracts or analyzing whether a fundraiser or an event could be held.
Later in her career, Mena transitioned to the area defense counsel. She had the opportunity to defend Airmen at more than 20 bases. She demonstrated a priority for defense and in making sure every client she represented knew they were being advocated for. Her favorite part was being able to tell them, “You are not alone – whatever you did or did not do, I will advocate for you.” After being an ADC, she specialized in labor and employment law and civilian personnel issues.
Mena’s role has evolved greatly after earning the rank of Major. No longer being in the courtroom, she began to advise her captains as they advocated. She now handles bigger, more sensitive issues as well as making sure her personnel are taken care of.
“There are times that I miss the work of an action officer, but it is a lot of fun seeing my team grow and succeed,” said Gehart. “I make sure they know everyone screws up and no one comes in knowing everything. If you continue to work hard and do your research, I have your back.” After winning this award, Mena isn’t hesitant to progress even further in her Air Force career. “I am determined to make the Air Force my career as long as that works for my family,” said Gehart. “We are ready to go wherever we are needed.”
Judge Advocates, like all Air Force careers, provide countless opportunities and goals to achieve. There is always something to progress towards and something to aim high for.