Ellsworth recognizes newest chief selects

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Four Ellsworth Airmen were recognized for reaching the pinnacle of the Air Force's enlisted rank structure during a special ceremony in the Dakota's Club, Feb. 21.

During the event Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Peterson, 28th Bomb Wing command chief, commended the chief master sergeant selects for their hard work and dedication, and lauded their families for helping them be successful in their careers.

"This ceremony is important because it allows us to come together and recognize those of us who have achieved the highest enlisted rank," Peterson said. "It shows new Airmen coming in that they can achieve any goal they set their sights on."

Peterson also gave the honorees a key piece of advice, letting them know that they should enjoy this special moment in their careers, but be prepared for the responsibilities of being a chief master sergeant.

"Chiefs have been in long enough to have learned from their successes and failures," Peterson said. "That experience is what will help them lead, mentor, understand and take care of their Airmen. It's important for them to remember what brought them to where they are today."

Senior Master Sgt. Ross Paa, 28th Maintenance Group quality assurance chief, was one of the four honored during the ceremony.

"To be able to be a chief is a humbling experience," Paa said. "I'll continue to do my best to be a man of integrity. That means doing the right thing every time - all the time."

Senior Master Sgt. Dana Rogers, 28th Communications Squadron quality assurance chief, said that the best leaders lead by example, a key he will carry with him as a chief master sergeant.

Rogers said, "chief master sergeant is more than just wearing rank, it is the commitment to helping those around you to do better."

"As I take on this next challenge in my career, I will do everything in my power to take care of my Airmen," Rogers said.

The two other senior master sergeants joining Paa and Rogers in attaining the rank of chief master sergeant are Charles Miller, 28th Maintenance Squadron assistant superintendant, and Joseph Davis, 28th Maintenance Squadron assistant superintendant.