Cannon hosts Senior NCO Induction Ceremony Published Aug. 26, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Chip Slack 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Dressed to the nines and encircled by family and friends, Cannon's newest master sergeant selects were inaugurated into the topmost tier of the enlisted pyramid during the Senior NCO Induction Ceremony Aug. 14 at the Landing Zone at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. The purpose of the SNCO Induction Ceremony is twofold: first, to formally recognize Airmen for their achievements and provide newly selected master sergeants with a comprehensive view of their increased supervisory, leadership and managerial responsibilities; and secondly, to afford leadership, peers and family the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of their respective Air Commandos. Throughout the evening, guests listened attentively as Chief Master Sgt. Matthew Caruso, Air Force Special Operations Command command chief, regaled them with tales of guidance and responsibility, and emphasized the importance of fulfilling the expectations of the sixth, inverted stripe on their sleeve through times of peace and war, good and bad. "SNCOs have a big influence on the culture in their units," said Caruso. "You're now going to be involved with decisions that can affect people's lives in a big way, so it's an honor and an accomplishment that you shouldn't take lightly." At ceremony's end, inductees filtered out of the dining hall with straining waistbands and a better understanding of the unique and mission-essential part they play in molding the Air Force of tomorrow, as well as a revitalized sense of purpose. "Don't ever forget this accomplishment is about family," stated Caruso. "Your AFSOC family, your Cannon family and your immediate family are all here to support you as you take this next step in your careers."