Joint Base Charleston named Teresa Chrapkiewicz, of Summerville, as this year’s Hometown Hero, recognizing her character and contributions to the Charleston community.

Chrapkiewicz is a teacher, published author, Air Force veteran, community volunteer and the first female Navajo pilot.

Col. Michael Freeman, commander of the 628th Air Base Wing, made the announcement and surprised Chrapkiewicz at work in front of her colleagues, highlighting her service and dedication to the Lowcountry.

“Teresa stood out among hundreds of nominees for her selflessness and impact on the community, making her well-deserved of our Hometown Hero title,” Freeman said.

JB Charleston received 17 Hometown Hero nominations for Chrapkiewicz from fellow teachers, volunteers and students. Not only is Chrapkiewicz a science teacher at Rise Academy, a secondary alternative education program, but she also dedicates her weekends to feeding and praying for the hungry through River Ministry, a program she co-founded with a close friend.

“My science teacher works very hard,” said one of Chrapkiewicz’s students, who submitted a nomination letter on her behalf. “Mrs. Chrapkiewicz speaks to me like a mother and a friend. She is wise and always willing to help me.”

Chrapkiewicz actively supports the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy and is involved with the Cass, Elias MacArthur Guardian Ad Litem program, which supports children in the Summerville court system.

She holds the distinction of being the first Navajo female pilot to obtain a pilot’s license. She wrote a children’s book detailing her journey. Additionally, Chrapkiewicz volunteers at local schools, sharing her book and encouraging the next generation to pursue their dreams, particularly aspiring aviators.

Chrapkiewicz is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served as a life support technician in the Reserve at Luke Air Force Base and the Arizona Air National Guard.

In January, JB Charleston sought nominations for a Hometown Hero and received more than 200 nominations to ride in the back seat of a Thunderbird F-16 on April 18, leading up to the “Heroes of Flight” Airshow on April 20-21. Nominees were required to be members of the Charleston community who have had a significant impact locally.

“I’m so thankful for this opportunity,” Chrapkiewicz said. “I’m thankful for my friends who nominated me, and I give glory to my lord and savior, Jesus Christ; I wouldn’t have had my dreams come true without him.”