SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- It is an honor and privilege to have earned the coveted rank of Chief Master Sergeant in our great Air Force.
This milestone marks a new chapter in my life that gives me a tremendous amount of pride. Attaining the rank of Chief was certainly not on my radar five years ago. I did check the necessary boxes, kept a positive attitude, and learned from previous supervisors what I should do to become a better leader, but it seemed like light-years before I would ever achieve such a powerful rank.
There was not one person or one event that led me to this honor, rather a collection of people and a collection of events.
Growing up I was taught to respect your elders, be a good person, do the right thing even when no one is looking, and work hard. Those traits still reside within me today. My parents, grandmother, friends, and coworkers have all shaped my way of thinking.
In regards to events, my deployment to Afghanistan marked the first momentous challenge I ever faced; consequently, my second deployment to Al Udeid AB contributed to my future outlook in the Air Force. Completing Survival training (SERE) in Fairchild AFB showed me how far I can push the limits, and how much strength I truly had to succeed. My three tours to HQ/AFRC were very impactful in the end as it paved the way to success through strategic lens. Let’s not forget the 932d wing picnic which introduced a broad range of networking opportunities throughout the military and civilian community.
As I look forward to the next year, I hope to help others achieve professional development goals and prepare them for their future roles as leaders of the Air Force. It’s not about me, it’s about my Airmen. I want them to succeed. I want them to shine. I want to inspire our young Airmen to attain their goals.
This is the Year of the NCO. It is a chance to highlight the significance of our enlisted force. We are the backbone of the Armed Forces, we work hard, we get the job done, and I want to continue this legacy.
- Monica K. Codner, CMSgt, USAF