New 120th AW chiefs inducted

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Eric Peterson
  • 120th Airlift Wing
Three new 120th Airlift Wing chief master sergeants were inducted to the top enlisted rank during a ceremony held at the Meadowlark Country Club September 30.

Montana Air National Guard leadership joined with the inductees' families and friends to celebrate the achievements of Chief Master Sgts. Osvaldo G. Mendez, Teresa A. Parker and John P. Weber.

The guest speaker for the evening event was the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell O. Brush. Prior to his selection as the NGB SEA he served as the Montana Air National Guard State Command Chief Master Sergeant assigned to the Montana National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters, Fort Harrison, Mont.

The three new chiefs come from a diverse range of career fields and bring a wealth of education and experience to their positions in the wing.

Mendez serves as the 120th Maintenance Operations Flight supervisor. He also serves an additional duty as chairman of the wing's Diversity Council.    

Parker is the chief enlisted manager for the 120th Logistics Readiness Squadron Material Management Flight and is responsible for leading 120 Airmen in areas including deployment and distribution, material management and vehicle operations.

Weber serves as the operations superintendent of the 120th Security Forces Squadron. He's also held the positions of flight sergeant and standardization-evaluation NCO in charge for the 120th SFS.

Chief Brush acknowledged the three new chiefs and encouraged them to enjoy their evening.

"This is a celebration of things you have done that has led you to be in this position," Chief Brush said. "I congratulate you tonight, take it all in and enjoy this night because it is all about you and your families. Because we all know we would never be at this place in our life if it wasn't for our families and the things we do."

Chief Brush also reminded the new chiefs of the responsibilities that accompanied their promotions.

"It's never been about the stripe, it's never been about the rank, it's never been about the privilege that we get," Chief Brush said. "It's all about what you're going to do for your people. So stay focused on the things you need to stay focused on, and that's the people."

In recognition for their achievements the new chiefs were presented with framed chief's certificates, chief's coins and a bronzed bust during the ceremony.