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Stories by Senior Airman Joshua Horton, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs and Master Sgt. Phil Speck, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs Office
Col. David Mounkes (left), commander of the 123rd Contingency Response Group, presents Chief Master Sgt. Scott A. Wanner, the group’s chief enlisted manager, with a certificate of retirement during a ceremony held at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., April 26, 2015. Wanner served in the active-duty Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard for more than 30 years. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Vicky Spesard)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — After more than three decades of service to the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard, Chief Master Sgt. Scott A. Wanner was officially retired in a ceremony here April 25.
As the chief enlisted manager for the 123rd Contingency Response Group, Wanner’s responsibilities included advising the commander on enlisted force morale, welfare, training and utilization; and overseeing the needs of the group’s enlisted force.
“From day one, your military bearing and calm spirit have been an outstanding benefit to our group,” said Col. David J. Mounkes, the commander of the 123rd Contingency Response Group. “I want to personally thank you for the numerous meetings where we had to discuss the way ahead for the CRG, dealing with the day-to-day leadership challenges for which you always had wise and mature advice. It wasn’t always easy in a group with such a unique contingency airfield-opening mission, but you were always up for it.”
Wanner enlisted in the active-duty Air Force in July 1983 as an inventory management specialist. His first assignment with the 305th Supply Squadron provided exposure to contingency operations during the invasion of Grenada. His second assignment with the 10th Supply Squadron, Royal Air Force Alconbury Air Base, England, further enhanced his desire for emergency and contingency operations.
During this period, Wanner played a supporting role in multiple operations, including a bombing raid in Libya and numerous deployments augmenting both Civil Engineering Red Horse and Prime Beef squadrons. His next assignment brought him back to the United States with the 445th Supply and CE Squadrons at Altus Air Force Base, Okla. He was then deployed to Bateen Air Base, United Arab Emirates, in support of Operations Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. After returning home, Wanner was approved for a voluntary separation incentive and enlisted as an air transportation specialist with the Air Force Reserve’s 87th Aerial Port Squadron at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, in September 1992.
During the next six years, Wanner applied for and trained in every aspect of his new career field. In September 1998, he left the 87th and enlisted with the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Aerial Port Squadron. By April of 2008, Wanner was promoted to the rank of chief master sergeant and assumed the position of squadron superintendent. Two years later, he accepted the position of chief enlisted manager with the newly formed 123rd Contingency Response Group.
During his time with the Kentucky Air Guard, Wanner has deployed to support both domestic and international missions, including Operations Noble Eagle, Iraqi Freedom, Southern Watch, and Deep Freeze; and relief efforts for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Col. Jeff Wilkinson, vice commander of the 123rd Airlift Wing, presents a certificate of recognition to Staff Sgt. Windy Wagner, chief of information protection, at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., Jan 8, 2015. Wagner was recognized for providing outstanding support to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management in its execution of security clearance investigations. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Phil Speck)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Staff Sgt. Windy Wagner has been recognized by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management for the outstanding support she provides to the Federal Investigative Services in the execution of security clearance background interviews.
Wagner is the Kentucky Air National Guard’s Chief of Information Protection. Her job is to ensure the security of information and monitor the implementation of Air Force information policies and programs for the 123rd Airlift Wing. As part of that work, she manages security background investigations for members of the wing.
To help OPM, Wagner assisted field agents in reserving locations on base that were private and comfortable in which to conduct national security background interviews, according to Col. Jeff Wilkinson, the wing’s vice commander. With more than 50 interviews being conducted each year, Wagner is constantly helping field agents complete their investigations, he added.
Wilkinson noted that Wagner often provides this assistance on her own time, above and beyond the requirements of her job description.
“These efforts directly enhance our overall national security posture by allowing these security interviews to be conducted in an expedient and professional manner,” said Scott Benson, special agent-in-charge of the OPM’s St. Louis Investigative Field Office.
Some of the interviews Wagner facilitated weren’t even for members of the Air Guard, but for personnel from other government agencies. To assist with those cases, Wagner conducted preliminary background checks so the personnel were cleared to enter the installation.
Wagner also has been key in ensuring that members whose open clearance investigations are about to expire get fast-tracked, saving OPM weeks of work that would otherwise need to be re-accomplished.
Story by 2nd Lt. James Killen, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Col. Michael Cooper (left), commander of the 123rd Medical Group, presents Chief Master Sgt. Johnie Cherry with a Meritorious Service Medal during Cherry’s retirement ceremony at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., Feb. 7, 2015. Cherry retired after more than 34 years of service to the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 2nd. Lt. James Killen)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — After more than 34 years of service to the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard, Chief Master Sgt. Johnie L. Cherry officially retired during a ceremony held at the Base Annex here Feb. 7.
Cherry, superintendent of the 123rd Medical Group, was responsible for managing health services and medical administrative functions.
The commander of the 123rd Medical Group, Col. Michael Cooper, said he had a deep respect for Cherry’s values and dedication to serve others.
“In our military service we’ve all had someone who was our chief, and I know that for many of you and countless others who could not be here today, Chief Cherry has been, and will always be, your chief,” Cooper told the audience.
Cherry served as a medical service specialist in the active-duty Air Force before joining the Kentucky Air National Guard. He would later cross-train as a public health technician and health services manager before taking responsibility as superintendent.
His decorations include three Air Force Achievement Medals, four Air Force Commendation Medals and three Meritorious Service Medals, in addition to other distinguished awards.
Cherry took the podium to thank the people he said made his career possible. He choked up as he addressed his wife, Sherry, saying, “Without you, this day could not be possible. You are my rock, my inspiration, and I love you with all my heart.”
“To the 123rd Airlift Wing,” Cherry concluded, “as reflected by the many devices on my uniform, you really are an outstanding unit, and the number one airlift wing in the United States Air Force. Thank you.”
Story by David Altom, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Col. Charles Jones presents Col. (retired) Mike Gavin with a Meritorious Service Medal during a ceremony held at Boone National Guard Center Oct. 16, 2014. Gavin retired after more than 30 years with the Kentucky National Guard, his most recent assignment being the state surgeon. (Photo by David Altom, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — When Mike Gavin first tried to join the military the recruiters didn’t want him. They said that, among other things, he was practically blind.
“I told them, well, I’m a blind surgeon, if that makes a difference,” he said.
It did.
More than thirty years later Kentucky Army National Guard State Surgeon Col. Mike Gavin retired after a distinguished and amazing career — despite having to wear glasses.
Click here for more photos.
The “blind surgeon.” Mike Gavin in the field on drill weekend. He went on to serve two tours of duty in Iraq and Uzbekistan, saving lives and bringing comfort to others. (Photo courtesy Col. Mike Gavin)
Gavin served as the battalion surgeon for the old 1st Battalion 123rd Armor as well as 2nd Battalion 123rd Armor. He also served as brigade surgeon for the 149th Maneuver Enhanced Brigade.
Col. Mike Abell, G-1 director, remembers the first time he met Gavin.
“I was at my first National Guard drill at the firing range,” he said. “There was this tent that had a sign that said ‘minor surgery’ and I was amazed to find out they were doing actual surgery on drill weekend. I’d just come off active duty as an Army Ranger and we didn’t even have that.”
“I told [then] Major Gavin how I’d just gone through a minor surgery with the Army. He said if I’d seen him during a drill weekend he could have done it, no problem.”
Gavin had a reputation for giving above and beyond to soldiers, but his practice wasn’t limited to drill weekends and annual training. He also served a tour of duty in Uzbekistan and two in Iraq, where he saved lives and brought comfort to his fellow service members.
Nancy Gavin, wife of Col. Mike Gavin, was recognized for her contribution as a military spouse. The Gavins have been married for more than 39 years. (Photo by David Altom, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs)
Needless to say, Gavin received numerous accolades and awards for his professional accomplishments. But that’s not what he talked about at his retirement ceremony. Instead, he focused on the teamwork that made his time with the Kentucky Army National Guard so special.
“I remember after I first got in and going on annual training in Texas,” he said. “I had this group of NCOs that were trying to teach me how to drive an M113 (armored personnel carrier). I’ll never forget it … they would slap the top of my helmet to get me to go, slap the right side to turn right and the left side to turn left. And to get me to stop they would pound the top of my head repeatedly.”
Gavin said throughout his career he relied on soldiers to “slap him on the head” and keep him in line. “It isn’t easy for a Spec. 4 to say, ‘sir, I really don’t think you should do that. It’s due to that kind of guidance, that camaraderie and support that I was able to do what I needed to do.”
“I’ll miss the Guard and working with a great bunch of soldiers,” he said. “It’s been a privilege and an honor to serve.”
Story by Airman 1st Class Joshua Horton, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Chief Master Sgt. Lori F. Zinsmeister, the outgoing chief enlisted manager for the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Airlift Wing, receives her certificate of retirement from Maj. Kevin A. Krauss, commander of the 123rd Force Support Squadron, during a retirement ceremony at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., March 23, 2014. Zinsmeister served in the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard for 26 years. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman Joshua Horton)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Chief Master Sgt. Lori F. Zinsmeister officially retired after 26 years of service to the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard during a ceremony held at the Base Annex here March 23.
Zinsmeister, chief enlisted manager of the wing’s 123rd Force Support Squadron, received a Meritorious Service Medal and a Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal during the ceremony, along with several other gifts and awards.
“I do not think anything that I can say here today will do justice to her 26 years of service,” said Maj. Kevin A. Krauss, commander of the Force Support Squadron. “She’s done a lot for the unit, she’s done a lot for the wing, she’s done a lot for the country and I would say she’s done a lot for me personally as well.”
Zinsmeister joined the Air Force on Aug. 5, 1987 as a security specialist shortly after high school graduation. Her first assignment was Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. A year and a half later, she was assigned to Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, where she remained for three years. During this assignment, Zinsmeister participated in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Provide Comfort.
Chief Master Sgt. Lori F. Zinsmeister, the outgoing chief enlisted manager for the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Airlift Wing, receives a distinguished service medal from Maj. Kevin A. Krauss, commander of the 123rd Force Support Squadron, during her retirement ceremony at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., March 23, 2014. Zinsmeister served in the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard for 26 years. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman Joshua Horton)
In July 1992, Zinsmeister and her family were reassigned to Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. She separated from the active-duty Air Force in July 1993 after six years of service.
Zinsmeister joined the Washington Air National Guard’s 141st Air Refueling Wing six months later, working in medical administration. Within two years, she transferred to personnel, a career field in which she would spend the last 18 years of her career, rising to the position of superintendent of customer support and casualty affairs at the 141st.
Three years later, in May 2007, Zinsmeister joined the Kentucky Air National Guard as chief enlisted manager at the 123rd Airlift Wing, a job she regards as the most gratifying of her career.
“You always knew where her passion was, and she showed it through her work ethic and how she raised up her people,” Krauss said. “She kept us on track. She kept us moving forward. She’s loyal to the end to her unit and people. With that, I want to say thank you very much to the chief. Godspeed as you make this transition, and good luck.”
“Most people don’t know how much she affects everyone’s lives here, whether you’re wearing a uniform or not,” said Chief Master Sgt. Wade Zinsmeister, the 123rd’s vehicle fleet manager and Lori’s husband. “As a chief, you mentored a lot of people and many people looked up to you. You may not have known it, but I also look up to you.”
Story by Master Sgt. Philip Speck, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Chief Master Sgt. Jim Amburgey (right) receives a certificate of retirement from Col. Kenneth Dale, commander of the 123rd Maintenance Group, during his retirement ceremony at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., on Jan. 12, 2014. Amburgey served for more than 38 years. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Vicky Spesard)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — With 38 years of outstanding service to the 123rd Airlift Wing, Chief Master Sgt. Jim Amburgey was honorably retired from the U.S. Air Force during a ceremony held here Jan. 12.
More than a hundred friends, family and fellow Guardsmen, both active and retired, attended the ceremony, which was punctuated by laughter and tears as the chief looked back on his career.
Col. Kenneth Dale, commander of the 123rd Maintenance Group, has worked with Amburgey for the past 34 years and praised him as a rock upon which the Kentucky Air National Guard was built.
“A nation reveals itself by the men it produces, but also by the men it honors, and the men it remembers,” Dale said, quoting former president John F. Kennedy. “Today we’re honoring one of the very best: Chief Amburgey.
Col. Kenneth Dale (left), commander of the 123rd Maintenance Group, pins the Meritorious Service Medal to the jacket of Chief Master Sgt. Jim Amburgey during Amburgey’s retirement ceremony at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., on Jan. 12, 2014. Amburgey served for more than 38 years. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Vicky Spesard)
“I believe Chief Amburgey has had a positive impact on every single person in this room.”
Amburgey decided to follow in the footsteps of his father, Master Sgt. Jim Amburgey Sr., and join the Kentucky Air National Guard on Sept. 12, 1975 as an Air Operations Specialist in the command post. The unit was flying RF-101 Voodoos at the time.
When Dale asked members of the audience how many people were part of the wing then, only two Airmen raised their hands — Amburgey and retired Maj. Gen. Carl Black.
Amburgey transitioned to the engine shop in 1978, and four years later, he was assigned to be Dale’s first trainer.
From 1985 until his retirement, Amburgey held a variety of positions in the 123rd Maintenance Operations Flight, including aircraft production controller and superintendent.
“He is truly the MOF subject-matter expert for the Air National Guard,” Dale said.
Because of his expertise in the Maintenance Operations Flight, Amburgey has been called upon for assistance from other units and the National Guard Bureau, which selected him by name to perform compliance inspections, Dale said.
After the terrorist attacks of September 2001, Amburgey deployed to Afghanistan several times, and in 2007 he was promoted to chief master sergeant — “one of the wisest things our wing has ever done,” Dale said.
As a deployed maintenance chief, Amburgey wowed the deployed commander at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, by having no missions lost due to maintenance, and by attaining a mission capability rate that was well over 90 percent — a rate which Dale said Bagram had not seen until the Kentucky Air National Guard and Chief Amburgey showed up.
“Every since he joined he the Kentucky Air National Guard, he’s been a true pillar of the Kentucky National Guard and U.S. Air Force,” Dale said. “He helped build the foundation of the Kentucky Air National Guard’s success and recognizable name around the world.
“Chief, thank you for your candor and your courage throughout the years. Thank you for making the tough decisions, the right decisions, for four long decades.”
Amburgey, who was presented with a Meritorious Service Medal and the Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal during the ceremony, thanked his many friends and family members for their support through the years, and for the spirit of teamwork that made his career so rewarding.
“Take away ranks, (and) we’re all people,” Amburgey said. “We’re all just a big team.”
Helped develop Kentucky’s first Warrant Officer Candidate School
Story by David Altom, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
State Command Chief Warrant Officer James “Jimmy” Simms retired after 42 years of service with the Kentucky National Guard. Among his accomplishments, he helped develop Kentucky’s first Warrant Officer Candidate School. (Official Kentucky National Guard photo)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Retired State Command Chief Warrant Officer Jimmy Simms has had a long row to hoe, as we say here in the Bluegrass State. The fourth person to hold that prestigious position, Simms retired last month after 42 years in the Kentucky Army National Guard and leaving behind a legacy that will affect generations to come.
Born in Versailles, Simms enlisted in the Kentucky Guard in February of 1972 as a wheel vehicle mechanic. His first assignment was with the old 203rd General Support Company in Danville, Kentucky until transferring to the 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery in 1984.
“I joined the Kentucky Guard when the country was still committed to Viet Nam and a lot of protest against that war was ever present,” he said. “At the age of eighteen I wasn’t sure what direction was right for me. I had friends that were in the National Guard and I liked how they could be part of the military and still go to college or have a career here at home, so I decided that was for me.”
A brand new Jimmy Simms 42 years ago. Little did he know where his career would take him. (Photo courtesy retired CW5 Jimmy Simms)
In 1985 Simms was appointed as a warrant officer in field artillery as the battalion maintenance technician. He would later transition to the same position for the 138th Field Artillery Brigade where he helped with the transition to the new fires brigade concept.
“After being in the Guard a while I began to see how all the different ranks and MOS’s supported each other and the unique qualities of each,” he said. “I thought about that and decided that my experience and knowledge could open the door to become a warrant officer.”
While assigned to the 138th Fires Brigade Simms was mobilized twice and deployed once to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He also completed a six month tour with the Joint Task Force in support of the Alaskan Road project on Annette Island Alaska.
“I have known Chief Simms since for over 30 years,” said Maj. Gen. Lonnie Culver, who commanded Simms during his time in the artillery. “He is a great Soldier, warrant officer, father, husband and friend. It has been an honor and pleasure serving with him, and it was always good to know that I had an expert who took pride in his work and took care of his Soldiers. He represents the warrant officer corps so well.”
CW5 Jimmy Simms and his son, Bradley. Both father and son flew on the same flight that brought the senior Simms home from Iraq. (Photo courtesy retired CW5 Jimmy Simms)
In October 2009 Simms was transferred to the state headquarters and assigned the position of senior maintenance officer. He was promoted to the rank of CW5 in January 2010.
Simms’ career also included a variety of positions in the federal technician program, starting out as a wheeled vehicle mechanic and moving up to shop chief. He retired as a technician in in 2009 with 31 years of service. Upon his retirement he was selected to run the operational equipment reset program at the maneuver and training equipment site at Fort Knox until his selection as the fourth state command chief on February 24, 2011.
Simms had many highlights in his warrant officer career, but two stand out above all the rest: his appointment to CW5 and being part of the planning and establishing of the Kentucky National Guard’s Warrant Officer Candidate School. In July 2011 Kentucky graduated its first warrant officers and Simms was there to witness it.
“I was so proud of those eight new warrant officers,” he said. “That was a great day for Kentucky and a great day for the warrant officer program.”
Newly appointed State Command Warrant Officer Dean Stoops had high praise for his predecessor.
State Command Chief Warrant Officer Jimmy Simms receiving the Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal from Adjutant General Edward W. Tonini on January 14, 2014. Simms relinquished his responsibility to newly appointed State Command Chief Dean Stoops and retired after 42 years of service. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“There are several things to admire about Chief Simms, but in particular is his commitment to know about each and every Warrant Officer in the Kentucky National Guard,” said Stoops. “It’s not easy to remember the details about each Soldier, but Chief Simms has the ability to know where each of his Warrant Officers are assigned, where they work, what their civilian and military jobs are, and even the personal things he has learned over the years.
“This is the characteristic of a great leader and I hope I can do half as well as Chief Simms.”
What would Simms advise someone looking to become a warrant officer? “I would tell a young soldier considering being a warrant office to plan their career to be an outstanding NCO by attending all their professional military education and be a leader regardless of their current rank. Then when the opportunity for warrant officer becomes available they will have the background and experience to meet the requirements to apply.”
He has similar advice for senior NCOs, but he tempers it by saying, “As a senior NCO you have a vital role in your command and you must weigh the benefits to both yourself and the Guard.”
After retiring from the Guard Simms plans to spend more time with Patricia, his wife of forty years, and his three children Autumn, Bradley and Benjamin and grandchildren Preston, Brayden and Eva.
But the Guard is still in his blood. He recently accepted an appointment as the executive director of the National Guard Association of Kentucky, the professional organization for the Kentucky Guard’s officer and warrant officer corps. His passion for that organization is in sync with his continuing dedication for the Guard.
“I’d love to see all NCOs and officers become active members in either the NGAKY or the Enlisted Association National Guard of Kentucky. With a joint effort we can send a strong message from all members of the Kentucky Guard to leaders in Frankfort and Washington to support legislation that protects our military and the individual Soldier and Airmen.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Vicky Spesard, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Col. Jeffrey Peters, the outgoing commander of the 123rd Mission Support Group, receives a Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal from Col. Barry Gorter, commander of the 123rd Airlift Wing, during Peters’ retirement ceremony at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., Jan. 11, 2014. Peters served in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard for 28 years. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Horton)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Col. Jeffrey L. Peters, commander of the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Mission Support Group, officially retired after 28 years of service during a ceremony held at the Base Annex here Jan. 11.
As support group commander, Peters directed the operations of more than 400 Airmen who provided a host of key services to the Louisville-based 123rd Airlift Wing, a C-130 airlift unit. Those services included base fire protection, security forces, civil engineering, disaster preparedness, communications and information technology.
“You have touched so many parts of this base,” said Col. Barry Gorter, commander of the 123rd Airlift Wing. “You have led the 400-plus members who are a part of your command to take care of the rest of us. You have touched all of us. Our mission here goes nowhere without the support of your group.
“I want to personally thank you,” Gorter continued. “Not only have you always been professional, but you have a calm, cool demeanor. You don’t get rattled. In the senior leader group, we found comfort in that, and I want to thank you.”
During the ceremony, Peters was presented a second Meritorious Service Medal, a Kentucky Service Medal, a Certificate of Appreciation signed by President Barrack Obama and a Certificate of Retirement.
“When I look back at the start of my Air Force career, I see a lot of life lived,” Peters told the audience. “I feel that my last 30 years have been well spent. I look forward to finding things to do that meet that same criteria of time well spent. I have been so blessed to have worn the uniform for so long.
“My hope today is that I had a chance to make a positive impact on your careers,” he continued. “And if I couldn’t do that, that I had a chance to make a positive impact on you day.”
Peters began his career with a commission as a second lieutenant through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps at Pennsylvania State University in 1985. He served nine and a half years on active duty in various weather officer positions. His last active-duty post was as commander, Detachment 10, 5th Weather Squadron, Fort Benning, Ga.
He joined the Kentucky Air National Guard in 1995 as a weather officer before accepting a number of leadership positions on base, including commander of the 123rd Aerial Port Squadron, commander of the 123rd Security Forces Squadron and Inspector General, 123rd Airlift Wing.
Peters deployed in 1993 to Mogadishu, Somalia, where he served as a senior meteorologist in support of Operation Restore Hope; and to Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, in 2005, when he was the staff weather officer in support of Operation Joint Guardian.
Lt. Col. Matt Stone has been named as Peters’ replacement.
Story and photos by Airman Joshua Horton, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Chief Master Sgt. Steven Peters was honored for 30 years of service to the Air Force and Air National Guard during a retirement ceremony held Feb. 2, 2013, at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky. Peters, chief of operations for the 123rd Civil Engineer Squadron, received a Meritorious Service Medal and a Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of his exceptional performance. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Joshua Horton)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — After 30 years of dedicated service to the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard, Chief Master Sgt. Steven Peters retired during a ceremony held in his honor Feb. 2 at the 123rd Airlift Wing.
Lt. Col. Phil Howard, commander of the 123rd Civil Engineer Squadron, officiated the service, calling Peters a true professional who “always got the job done.”
“I’m honored to have this opportunity today to say a few things about the chief on his retirement after 30 years of service to the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard,” Howard told an audience of more than 200 friends, family and coworkers in the Base Annex.
“I want to thank everyone here for taking their time to pay tribute to a true patriot, a leader, a veteran, a brother, a son and, most importantly for me, a great friend.”
Peters, chief of operations for the 123rd Civil Engineer Squadron, decided to join the Armed Forces during his junior year of high school. While working odd jobs, he came to the conclusion that his talents would be better served elsewhere after an Air Force recruiter visited his school. Peters enlisted a year later.
After attending technical training as a plumber at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, Peters was stationed at Carswell Air Force Base, Texas, for four years. Following a downsizing of the Air Force enlisted ranks, he left active duty and joined the Kentucky Air National Guard in 1986.
Chief Master Sgt. Steven Peters (right) is presented with a Meritorious Service Medal by Lt. Col. Phil Howard, commander of the 123rd Civil Engineer Squadron, during a retirement ceremony held in Peters’ honor at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., on Feb. 2, 2013. Peters, the squadron’s chief of operations, served in the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard for three decades. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Airman Joshua Horton)
Peters’ first deployment was to Hawaii in 1988. After that, he deployed to multiple locations around the world, including England, Spain, Central America, Germany, Ecuador, Bagdad and Afghanistan.
Peters said his proudest moments were his participation in Operation Enduring Freedom, the war in Afghanistan; Operation Iraqi Freedom, the war in Iraq; Operations Jump Start 1 and 2, the National Guard-led effort to enhance border security with Mexico; and Operation Neuvos Horizontes, a Kentucky National Guard mission to build a school and other infrastructure in Ecuador while enhancing relations with the Ecuadorian military.
“The thing I remember is that he always did things neatly, always maintained great military bearing and always, always got the job done,” Howard said.
Peters demonstrated his leadership in 2004 when he was selected as distinguished graduate at a Pavements and Equipment Training Course. He declined to accept the honor so a younger, up-and-coming troop could receive the award instead. For his selfless actions, Peters was given the commander’s award for Leadership in Excellence instead.
“You always took care of the men, and that was your key role,” Howard said, calling it an especially critical function when the unit was deployed in 2011 to Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan — a site that receives regular enemy fire. “You quickly nailed down everyone’s location during rocket attacks, making sure we were all safe. You made sure everyone got credit for their hard work, personally processing 60 awards.”
Thanks in part to Peters’ persistence and character, Howard added, the 123d Civil Engineer Squadron received its first “excellent” rating during a 2010 Operational Readiness Inspection.
“I appreciate that you left this place better than you found it,” Howard said. “Most importantly, you met the prime objective, which is to always take care of the men and women of this unit. I want to salute you for your great contributions and a job well done.”
Story by Master Sgt. Philip Speck, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Chief Master Sgt. Michael W. Shepherd, 123rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron superintendent, receives his certificate of retirement from Col. Ken Dale, commander of the 123rd Maintenance Group, during a ceremony held Dec. 1, 2012, at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky. Shepherd retired after 32 years of service to the Kentucky Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force. (Kentucky Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Maxwell Rechel)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky.- With 32 years of outstanding service to the 123rd Airlift Wing, Chief Master Sgt. Michael W. Shepherd was honorably retired from the U.S. Air Force during a ceremony Dec. 1 at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base.More than a hundred friends, family members and fellow Guardsmen, both active and retired, attended the ceremony, which was punctuated by laughter and tears as the chief looked back on his career.
Capt. James Embry, an aircraft maintenance officer who has worked with Shepherd for the past 15 years, spoke at the event, praising him as a natural leader.
“He has the ability to rally the troops and lead them to a common goal greater than themselves,” Embry said.
When he asked others to describe Shepherd’s character, Embry received many telling responses: willingness to help; someone who takes care of his people; a father figure; a person of integrity; the ability to unite; a team player; down to earth; not afraid to make tough decisions; full of humility and respect.
“Your legacy here at the Kentucky Air National Guard will live on by all the lives you’ve touched or helped mentor throughout your career,” Embry concluded. “Your career truly lives up to the Air Force core values: integrity first, service before self and excellence in all you do.”
After graduating from Manual High School in Louisville in 1978, Shepherd was an aspiring mechanic. One day after passing the base while working at a local car dealership, he noticed a C-5 Galaxy parked on the tarmac. He stopped in during an open house a few weeks later and was asked if he would like to work on aircraft.
“The rest was history,” Embry added.
Shepherd joined the Kentucky Air National Guard in 1980 as a traditional aircraft maintenance crew chief on the RF-4C Phantom II. He was hired full-time in 1983 and was later named Airman of the Year.
From 1985 to 1989, he was assigned to the Maintenance Operations Center within the 123rd Maintenance Group. In 1989, he was a key player in the wing’s conversion from the RF-4C to C-130B Hercules aircraft as the Kentucky Air Guard transitioned its mission from photo reconnaissance to military airlift.
In 1991, Shepherd was named crew chief for a factory-fresh C-130H aircraft, tail no. 91-1238, which is widely considered to be one of the best in the fleet.
From 1995 to 2003, he filled the position of isochronal dock chief for the 123rd Aircraft Generation Squadron, and in 2001 he was again named Airman of the Year.
Shepherd’s unit was activated following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and he deployed to multiple locations across the globe in support of the Global War on Terror.
Shepherd led the 123rd AGS as flight chief, and the 123rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron as production superintendent, through numerous inspections and deployments from 2004 to 2008. In 2008, he was promoted to chief master sergeant and became the superintendent of the 123rd AMXS, deploying in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
“Along the way, his career was filled with — well let’s just say if he was a professional athlete, he would have a favorable stat sheet,” Embry said.
Shepherd, who was presented with a Meritorious Service Medal and the Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal during the ceremony, thanked his many friends and family members for their support through the years.
“Thanks to my family,” Shepherd said as his voice strained with emotion. “You obviously can’t have a career like I’ve had, and not have good support at home. And that’s family and friends.”
Under his leadership, the 123rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron successfully met 100 percent of the unit’s taskings in support of the Global War on Terror, supporting over 10,000 sorties, 22,000 flying hours and more than 218,000 mission-capable hours.
Story by Senior Airman Vicky Spesard, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Lt. Col. Jeff Wilkinson, commander of the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron, presents Chief Master Sgt. Patrick Malone with a Meritorious Service Medal during Malone’s retirement ceremony Oct. 20, 2012, at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky. Malone served in the active-duty Air Force and Air National Guard for 30 years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Maxwell Rechel)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — With 30 years of exemplary service in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard, Chief Master Sgt. Patrick M. Malone was honorably retired from the Armed Forces Oct. 20 during a ceremony held in his honor at the 123rd Airlift Wing.
Surrounded by hundreds of friends, family and co-workers of all ranks, the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron pararescueman was presented with the Meritorious Service Medal and the Distinguished Kentucky Service Medal by squadron commander Lt. Col. Jeff Wilkinson.
“Chief Malone’s accomplishments are too many to name,” Wilkinson said. “He is a one-in-a-million individual. His degree of personality, talent, leadership and caring is so exceptional, that we are blessed to work with him. Men like him come around only once in a lifetime.”
Malone began his career in the Air Force on Oct. 19, 1982. After completing basic training, he went on to become a special operations pararescueman, a jump-qualified trauma-care specialist whose primary mission is to deploy into restricted environments and extract injured personnel. His first duty assignment was with the 6594th Test Group at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, where he conducted numerous open-ocean rescue missions.
After serving an active-duty tour in Alaska as a member of the 71st Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, Malone joined the Alaska Air Guard. There, he assisted in several search-and-recovery missions and was credited with saving 85 lives.
In 2000, Malone enlisted in the Kentucky Air National Guard as its first pararescue senior enlisted advisor, playing a key role in the transformation of the existing 123rd Combat Control Flight into a special tactics squadron. He also personally led the Air National Guard special operations task force responsible for the evacuation of thousands of citizens in Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina.
“Chief Malone is a visionary,” Wilkinson told the audience. “He mentored, cultivated and trained future members of the new squadron. More than that, Chief Malone has built an everlasting bond of brotherhood within our unit.”
As part of the retirement ceremony, the special tactics squadron presented Malone and his family with a commemorative American flag.
“What can I say about my squadron — wow!” Malone remarked. “It has been my pleasure, my privilege and honor to work with you, and I salute you all.”
A combat veteran of Operations Enduring Freedom Afghanistan and Iraqi Freedom, Malone’s many decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Airman’s Medal, the Bronze Star and the Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters.
Malone thanked many of his co-workers and family members for their support during his career, but he reserved special recognition for his wife, Kim.
“You’re everything,” he said. “You have been here with me always. You are my mentor, my guide, and the love of my life. Thank you.”
