ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Chief Master Sgt. Kristina Rogers, 19th Air Force command chief, visited Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, March 31, 2022, to share her story with Airmen and their families in honor of Women’s History Month.
Airmen briefed Rogers on new and improved processes, buildings, and operations at numerous locations on the installation. The day concluded with a speech at the HERstory dinner, where she spoke about struggles and accomplishments throughout her Air Force career.
“I've never felt like a woman in the Air Force,” said Rogers. “I've always felt like an Airman in the Air Force who happens to be a woman, and I feel like this because of all of the amazing women that have come before me.”
Rogers joined the Air Force in 1996 and, throughout her 26 years, she has held numerous senior enlisted titles at almost every level.
“I've spent my entire career wanting to be the best Airman I could be,” said Rogers. “But now I want to be the best Airman and human for others.”
Chief Master Sgt. Laura Hoover, 97th Operations Group superintendent, attended the HERstory dinner and said Rogers’ words and career path inspired her on her own journey as an Airman.
“If you can see her, you can be her,” said Hoover. “Knowing that I’m not alone on this journey and having her there to remind me it is okay to ask for help inspires me and pushes me to motivate others.”
Rogers said it is important that Airmen continue to reflect on the achievements of women across the centuries and to pay tribute to the pioneers who paved the way.
“Let's remember their stories, share their stories, and add to the stories being told,” said Rogers. “Remember, we all have a story and our stories are worth telling.”