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Cannon hosts Senior NCO Induction Ceremony

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Whitney Tucker
  • 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. 23 at the Landing Zone at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M.

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. Robert Craig, 27th Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron superintendent, 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 also have a big influence on the culture in their units," said Chief Master Sgt. Paul Henderson, 27th Special Operations Wing command chief. "The level of professionalism within a unit can often be traced to the leadership and moral courage of the SNCOs within that unit. SNCOs must ensure their work centers reflect the highest standards of professionalism, resources are used efficiently and all assigned Airmen are properly trained, equipped and supported."

"Transitioning to the SNCO tier is a big deal," Henderson continued. "This is the key point where our enlisted Airmen become operational leaders. Instead of serving as technical experts and first-line supervisors, a master sergeant coordinates resources and teams of experts to get the mission done. The SNCO is the critical link between the commanders and our line Airmen."

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.

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