Backbone of Air Force Welcomes Newest Members to their Ranks

  • Published
  • By Bradley J. Clark
  • 908th Airlift Wing
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  The 908th Airlift Wing inducted 68 Airmen into the NCO Corps following promotions from senior airman to staff sergeant in 2016 during a ceremony June 3 at Maxwell Air Force Base.

The ceremony was sponsored by the 56’ers group, an organization in the 908th comprised of junior NCOs, meaning the pay grades of E-5 and E-6.

The ceremony is a long honored rite of passage for enlisted members, signifying they can handle more responsibility, which includes leading and caring for Airmen.

That was one of the points that guest speaker, Chief Master Sgt. Earl Hannon from Headquarters Air Force ROTC emphasized asking, “What will you do with your knowledge and skills the Air Force has given you? You should lead you your Airmen the way you want to be led.”

The 908th’s senior enlisted member, Command Chief Master Sgt. Tina Carlson explained the importance of the ceremony.

“An NCO Induction Ceremony is our way of honoring the hard work these Airmen have accomplished in achieving the next step of leadership by entering the noncommissioned officer corps,” said Carlson. “These are our future leaders and we want them to know how important and meaningful that is.”

908th commander, Col. Kenneth Ostrat outlined his expectations for the new first line leaders.

“I want you to know that this was not a gift,” said Ostrat. “This was earned through hard work and is well deserved. The Air Force and your leaders have given you the tools to succeed and the training to flourish, now it is your job to do the same for the Airmen under you.”

Ostrat continued by explaining that a true leader is also a servant.

“You are now leaders of Airmen, but you serve them as well,” said Ostrat. “If they suffer then it is on you to help them and fix the situation.”

Ostrat closed his remarks by restating the pride the inductees should be feeling, along with the pride their leaders are feeling.

“All of you now have the honor and privilege to lead Airmen and for that we are proud of you,” said Ostrat. “Now you need to go make the rest of the world proud of you.”