Chief Thierolf farewell: there’s nothing quite like this life experience

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Hosea
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  After 30 years of service in the Air Force, Chief Master Sgt. Norman Thierolf, 80th Flying Training Wing superintendent, bid Sheppard and the Air Force a final farewell at his retirement ceremony at the Sheppard Club April 16.

Chief Thierolf said he plans to attend School at Midwestern State University as a full time student after traveling the country for a few months.

Although the chief is looking forward to retirement, he said he will miss Team Sheppard.
"I will miss the community support and people that we have here," he said. "The support from the people outside the gate is truly amazing.

"The (Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training program) has a lot of diversity because of the international part of the program, and that is something that you don't see everywhere. I consider it a privilege to have served with all the militaries I served with.

"I hope my replacement will 'enjoy the ride'," he said. "It will go by almost too quickly."

Chief Thierolf has succeeded in improving and implementing various enlisted development programs for the base, including the monthly chief's commentary in the Sheppard Senator and a more personal approach to the task.

"I would go to the (Wing Learning and Development Center) to speak with every (First Term Airman's) class for about an hour each class," the chief said. "That gave me a firsthand opportunity to talk with Sheppard's up-and-coming Airmen at the start of their careers."

Overall, the chief said the best part of his career was watching people grow and succeed in their careers.

"I loved seeing people get promotions, receive decorations and earn awards," he said.

"Watching them succeed and be successful was definitely a highlight of my career."

Chief Thierolf gave a few last pieces of guidance before he parted.

"Take pride in what you do and have fun while doing it," he said. "No matter where I was, I always had a good time just being in the Air Force. Take advantage of opportunities and get out of your comfort zone when you can, because you will grow personally and professionally.

"Work hard even when no one is looking because believe it or not, people notice," he said. "And finally take care of your people, and they'll take care of you. The people I worked for and worked with helped me get here."

With all of the achievements, experiences and impacts he has had over the past 30 years, the chief said he's still a small farm town resident at heart.

"I've gone from a small farm town at age 17 to seeing the world and ended up back in a small farm town as a chief master sergeant," he said. "There's nothing quite like this life experience."