Creech leadership lauds senior master sergeant selectees

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  • By Staff Sgt. N.B.
  • 432nd Wing, 432nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
LAS VEGAS --  For many, advancing to the top of the elite senior non-commissioned officer tier is a significant and personally demanding accomplishment. And some Airmen and families who equally endure these trials were recently congratulated in a very personal way.

Leadership from the 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing made sure that Creech Air Force Base's newest senior master sergeants and their families were personally recognized for their achievements with an unexpected visit at their home.

"It's important to recognize senior enlisted Airmen for their achievements because they are shaping the future of our Air Force by leading through example," said Col. James Cluff, 432nd Wing/432nd AEW commander. "I felt that it was important that we honored the newest Creech senior master sergeant selects by congratulating them at home, where they are surrounded by everyone who's important to them, to make this experience even more memorable."

First sergeants, squadron commanders and chiefs were among the first to congratulate a few of Creech's 10 selectees, which included Airmen from the 432nd Wing, the 799th Air Base Squadron from Nellis AFB, Nev., and the 20th Reconnaissance Squadron, located at Whiteman AFB, Mo.

For one family the congratulations came in the form of a bitter-sweet surprise at a deployed spouse's dinner.

"My husband tested prior to leaving for his deployment so having him make it is amazing," said Tammy, wife of Master Sgt. Jody, 432nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, assistant aircraft maintenance unit superintendent. "I am very proud to accept his stripes for him but wish he was here to celebrate with me. Either way I'm glad the stress of not knowing is over so he can focus on other things while deployed."

Chief Master Sgt. Butch Brien, 432nd Wing/432nd AEW command chief, explained his view on the Air Force's six percent promotion rate to senior master sergeant and why Team Creech felt it necessary to notify selectees in person.

"During the current climate where AF promotion rates are dropping and promotions are becoming more competitive, gaining rank is possible and is an indication of the member's determination," said Brien. "Visiting Airmen at home shows them that Team Creech values the families that make doing our job easier and that we're determined to make them feel like a part of the family as much as possible."

For one selectee the visit from so many caring and familiar faces made the unforgettable experience one he had not encountered during his two tours as a first sergeant.

"I was truly honored to have the commander recognize me at my home and have my family join in," said Master Sgt. Gordon, 432nd Maintenance Squadron, accountable munitions systems officer. "This was the first time since making senior airman below the zone that my family was able to participate."

Another selectee, Master Sgt. Danell, 432nd Operations Support Squadron, shared Gordon's admiration to Creech leadership's personal touch.

"In my 18 years of service I have never seen anything like this. Wow, Creech, thank you so much! I'm in this Air Force for the long haul and my goal is to become chief master sergeant of the Air Force one day," said Danell.

He had just arrived to the Las Vegas area a few days prior when Team Creech arrived at his doorstep to congratulate him on his selection. He expressed how humbling the personal gesture was and that it reinforced his desire to support Airmen and continue to serve in the Air Force.

In total, 12.1 percent of eligible Creech Airmen were selected for promotion; double that of the Air Force average.

"It truly speaks volumes to the leaders and mentors at Creech that we produced nearly double the AF's average senior master sergeant selects this year," said Brien.

Editor's Note: Some names have been withheld for security purposes.