KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- When two buses filled with chief master sergeants and the
vice commander visit a unit, it is either a very good or a very bad thing.
Fortunately for the senior master sergeants they met, they brought positive
news.
A total of 11 Kadena senior master sergeants were selected
for promotion to chief master sergeant. All available chiefs and Col. Richard
Tanner, 18th Wing vice commander, visited each of the selectees at their units
to congratulate them Dec. 6, 2017.
“Touring the base and meeting all of the new chiefs brought
back memories,” said Chief Master Sgt. Greg Butcher, 18th Force Support
Squadron military personnel flight superintendent. “I remember that excitement
and it was truly humbling to have been a part of it.”
The excitement of joining the top of the U.S. Air Force
enlisted corps wasn’t lost on the selectees. Families, coworkers, leaders and more
joined together to congratulate the new chiefs on their promotion, which led to
tears and heartfelt thanks.
“Making chief feels unbelievable,” said Senior Master Sgt.
Demetrius Jones, 18th Communications Squadron operations flight superintendent.
“It’s very humbling and as much as you want to prepare yourself, you can’t. I
can’t forget the people that have helped get me where I am throughout the
years. For now, though, I’m excited to continue doing my job and doing the best
I can wherever the Air Force ends up needing me.”