NCOs learn what it takes to be a shirt

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  About 30 junior and senior NCOs interested in being a first sergeant learned what it takes to be selected during a symposium at the base Deployment Center, Feb. 17 through 20.

Technical sergeants and senior NCOs who either fill in as first sergeants in their squadrons or have a desire to become one attended the symposium that allowed attendees to interact with one another and instructors, ask questions and learn from first-hand experiences.

"One of the most important things they get during the course is the first sergeant perspective," said Master Sgt. Patrick Hill, 28th Medical Group first sergeant. "Personally, I learned more going through the symposium as an acting first sergeant than actually going to the first sergeant academy because I learned so much from the first sergeants who shared their knowledge and experiences."

The seminar included briefings on a variety of issues ranging from family care planning, the Air Force fitness program, administrative reprimands, the Article 15 process and counseling. There were also presentations by the Airman and Family Readiness Center, 28th Bomb Wing Legal Office, Air Force Office of Special Investigations and Air Force Aid Society.

"This symposium is for our junior NCOs at the technical sergeant level, as well as our master sergeants and master sergeant selects," Hill said. "The seminar educates them on basic tools and skill sets needed to be successful, not only as additional duty first sergeants, but as operational leaders as well."

He added that as a first sergeant, Airmen will gain skills and knowledge not available in any other career field.

"This type of training enhances a senior NCO's ability to lead Airmen and take care of issues that affect readiness and mission accomplishment," said Hill who has four years of first sergeant experience. "The goal is to teach senior NCOs traits that are needed to be first sergeants, and to look at all the commander's programs from a people perspective, rather than an operational side."

According to Hill, first sergeants are incredibly important because they are subject matter experts on a broad array of topics, including emergency leave, domestic violence issues and misconduct.

"The individuals here will be able to step in for the first sergeant at a moment's notice," Hill said. "As first sergeants and key leaders for their organization, they have an incredible opportunity to influence and inspire their Airmen and really make a difference by connecting with them and their families."

Hill added that he enjoyed sharing his knowledge and experience with the attendees in an effort to help them become better leaders, while possibly preparing them to be the next generation of diamond wearers.

"Hopefully these courses will be a great recruitment tool," Hill said. "It can help these individuals see how motivated first sergeants are about taking care of Airmen and hopefully get them motivated to put the diamond on." 

During the symposium Col. Kevin Kennedy, 28th Bomb Wing commander, thanked the attendees for volunteering their time to help improve the wing's capability by stepping up to take on roles as acting first sergeants.

"I ask as you continue forward, to help support our Airmen in every way possible, because the mission doesn't happen without our Airmen," Kennedy said.