Chief Recognition Ceremony

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Rachelle Elsea
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Tyndall Air Force Base recently hosted the Chief Recognition Ceremony Feb. 18 at the Horizons Community Center.

The ceremony is an annual event that recognizes the base's newest chief master sergeants and chief master sergeant-selects. Chief master sergeant makes up only 1 percent of the entire Air Force.

With the rank of chief, as with any rank, come new expectations.

"When you become chief, you stop being the technical and operational experts on things and now focus on the bigger picture of how all of the elements work together to accomplish the mission," said Chief Master Sgt. Dawna Cnota, 325th Mission Support Group Superintendant. "The 'elements' can be people, units and groups. The chief removes obstacles, acquires buy-in and ensures mission success."

Along with focusing on the bigger picture, Chief Master Sgt. Mike Rabb, Maintenance Operation Squadron Superintendent, said it is important that the newest chiefs remember that credit should not only be given to their own efforts but also those around him.

"Making chief is a collective effort," said Chief Rabb. "We need the support of our families and friends."

The guest speaker of the night, Command Chief Master Sgt. Michael Williams, 19th Air Force, also took time to address the newest chiefs and their families. Chief Williams enlisted in 1982 and has been stationed worldwide.

During his speech he discussed how chief's opinions are viewed as policy. He reminded the new chiefs to use care when expressing personal views on issues, and that they are always being watched and listened to. The weight of that responsibility is great.

"The importance of becoming a chief is that you are now looked upon as having all the answers on all matters, great and small," said Chief Cnota. "This ceremony is the beginning of what will probably be the most significant portion of your career. It's a time to reflect on not only what it means to you, but to the commanders and Airmen who share this recognition with you. Another great point from Chief Master Sergeant Williams, 'enjoy this night, then get over yourselves and get to work.'"

Tyndall's newest Chiefs and Chief Selects are Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Wisser, 601st Air Operations Center; Chief Master Sgt. Bradley Roberts, 325th Maintenance Squadron; Chief Master Sgt. (Sel.) Jonathan Martin, 325th MXS; Chief Master Sgt. (Sel.) David Sosa, Headquarters Air Force Civil Engineering Support Agency; Chief Master Sgt. (Sel.) Donald Moffett, Headquarters AFCESA; and Chief Master Sgt. (Sel.) Bradly Coon, 325th Maintenance Operations Squadron.

"To the new chiefs we say welcome and stay humble," said Chief Cnota. "The stripe doesn't belong to us; it belongs to the Airmen, so use it to help them."