FARGO, N.D. – The Air Force Sergeants Association has recognized Master Sgt. Zachary B. Robinson, 119th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron weapons load standardization crew team chief, with the 2024 Pitsenbarger Award, a national recognition given to enlisted Airmen who display extraordinary courage and selflessness in life-threatening situations, for his extraordinary heroism during the July 14, 2023, Fargo police shooting.
Robinson was presented the award at a ceremony at the Fargo Air National Guard Base on Friday, February 28.
Robinson, who serves as a police officer with the Fargo Police Department in his civilian career, acted decisively when a gunman ambushed officers responding to an unrelated traffic incident. As chaos unfolded, Robinson engaged the shooter, stopping the threat and preventing what officials believe could have been a mass casualty event.
“I was honored to present Master Sgt. Robinson with the Air Force Sergeants Association Pitsenbarger Award for 2024,” said Col. Christopher M. Domitrovich, 119th Wing Commander. Zach selflessly demonstrated the Hooligan Way through his heroic actions that day. Through his quick actions and instinct to run toward danger, Zach prevented a much larger tragedy in our community.”
The Fargo attack killed Officer Jake Wallin and critically injured Officers Tyler Hawes and Andrew Dotas, a fellow member of the 119th Wing. Robinson’s actions, under fire, neutralized the threat and protected both fellow officers and civilians. Both Hawes and Dotas have since made full recoveries.
“I, along with the Airmen of the 119th Wing, truly appreciate all that our first responders provide our community and couldn’t be prouder of Master Sgt. Robinson for his service in and out of the military uniform,” added Domitrovich. Robinson’s unwavering commitment to duty—both as a North Dakota Air National Guard Airman and a Fargo police officer, exemplifies the valor, readiness, and dedication to service that define the men and women of the 119th Wing, the “Happy Hooligans.”