Military Affairs Committee shows appreciation to Altus First Sergeants

  • Published
  • By Kenneth Scarle
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
More than four dozen Altus Air Force Base First Sergeants, spouses and unit commanders were honored at a dinner hosted by the Altus Military Affairs Committee this October. This annual event was established in 2000, with the intent of showing appreciation to the diligent work of the First Sergeants of the Mighty 97th. The dinner included a catered meal along with the opportunity for commanders to introduce their First Sergeants and explain how vital they are to the mission.

U.S. Air Force Col. Todd Hohn, commander of the 97th Air Mobility Wing said he was extremely glad to be part of this annual event. “First sergeants are one of our most valuable assets when it comes to caring for our Airmen,” said Hohn. “They serve as key advisors to commanders and their Airmen – 24/7. Without them taking those 3 a.m. phone calls, our mission would be far more difficult to accomplish.”

According to Air Force Instruction 36-2113, the First Sergeant’s expertise and experience is invaluable for a commander to lead the enlisted force to its potential. First Sergeants, also known as “shirts,” hold a position granted to Master Sergeants and above, and promote general health, discipline, and career progression for their personnel.

These expeditionary leaders serve in a time honored special duty position, rich in custom and tradition, who primarily sustain the mission through interaction, support and management of Airmen and their families. And this includes all the additional-duty First Sergeants as well. They ensure Air Force personnel are physically, emotionally, and professionally motivated to complete the mission, by advising them on any personal issues or challenges they may be facing.

MAC Chairman Dr. Joe Leverett said this dinner helps them honor the often unrecognized efforts put forth by the shirts and helps them meet some of the community members whose freedom they are ensuring. “This is just a small part of what we, as a community, do for our Airmen,” said Leverett. “We love Altus Air Force Base, and all the many different people it brings here. We consider them family and want to support them in all they do. This is just a small token of appreciation for the sacrifices shirts make.”

During past events, the committee has arranged for guest speakers to attend, even from as far away as Washington D.C. However, in recent years, they thought it would be more effective to pull speakers from the base, to be more attuned to what’s really going on at the ground level.

Master Sergeant Charles Warrington, First Sergeant for the 97th Logistics Readiness Squadron gave remarks on how the Shirts at Altus have a great bond with their Airmen and the community. “It is an awesome experience to see the first sergeants and their spouses getting recognized for their efforts and sacrifice,” said Warrington. “As a First Sergeant, I am appreciative for the recognition of my own and my fellow First Sergeant's service and for the opportunity to connect with the local community leaders, other commanders, and first sergeants in an informal setting.”

Hohn praised the accomplishments and dedication of the shirts at Altus. “First sergeants are proactive leaders who demonstrate initiative, innovation and character,” said Hohn. “Our first Shirts lean forward, taking care of our Airmen. That’s how we are able to effectively accomplish the mission at the Mighty 97th – by staying aware or our responsibilities and always caring for our spouses, children and family.”

The evening concluded with the shirts and commanders sharing stories about how important the first shirt’s role is, both to the commanders and subordinates. Warrington said the most significant contribution a first sergeant provides is support. “We take care of the people within our span of control so the people can take care of the mission,” said Warrington.