MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- To most enlisted Airmen, the first sergeant is a special, senior non-commissioned officer position. A first sergeant is supposed to be there to provide a dedicated focal point for all readiness, health, morale, welfare and quality-of-life issues within his or her organization.
This is no less true for first sergeants in the Air Force Reserve. They are often on-call and working irregular hours, while also working full-time civilian jobs.
Senior Master Sgt. Willie Tucker, 931st Force Support Squadron first sergeant, has been serving as a first sergeant off and on for more than ten years. For Tucker, being a first sergeant was a chance to exhibit his passion for advising his fellow Airmen.
“I became a First Sergeant because I have a heart to mentor and a passion to make a positive impact on Airmen’s lives,” said Tucker. “I felt this was the best path toward that goal as an enlisted Airman.”
Like most first sergeants, Tucker’s reach has extended to more than one unit within the 931st Air Refueling Wing. He has also helped serve with the 931st Civil Engineer Squadron and Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Currently, the 931st ARW has various first sergeant vacancies. Chief Master Sgt. Takesha Williams, 931st ARW command chief, thinks being a first sergeant is the most rewarding job in the Air Force.
“The 931st ARW first sergeants are the constant continuity between our Airmen and the command chief,” Williams said. “First sergeants provide a true perspective of what our Airmen are thinking and adamantly express their concerns.”
According to Williams, first sergeants are essential to the mission at Team McConnell.
“The first sergeants are the first line of defense for our enlisted force within the 931 ARW, without them the Command Chief’s job would be more challenging,” said Williams.
For those that may be unsure, Tucker says any promotion eligible Technical Sergeant or Master Sergeant who is seriously interested already has the tools to be successful.
“All of the training and Professional Military Education has prepared them to be a first sergeant,” Tucker said. “A junior NCO who aspires to be a first sergeant should know they need to find a mentor to help them.”
For eligible Airmen who wish to become a first sergeant, contact your first sergeant or Chief Williams.