SNCOs fill first sergeant position Published June 11, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller 82nd Training Wing, Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- They can be referred to as additional duty first sergeants, acting shirts, associate shirts, temporary or t-shirts, and in a teasing manner they are called undershirts. "When they really need my help, all they say is "shirt" and we both know play time is over," said Master Sgt. Ronald Pierce, an acting first sergeant for the 82nd Mission Support Squadron, Wing Staff Agencies, and the 82nd Services Division. Senior noncommissioned officers act as first sergeants because a unit may go through a few months before it can get its next diamond-wearing first sergeant. Also, a unit may not be authorized a first sergeant if it's not large enough, said the acting first sergeant. Sgt. Pierce said he doesn't like the term "additional duty first sergeant" because being a shirt consumes his day. "There is no additional duty about it," he said, "it's a full-time job." A first sergeant is a SNCO with the extended responsibilities of ensuring the discipline, morale and welfare of the unit, almost like a parent, said Sgt. Pierce. The master sergeant said, like many Airmen and noncommissioned officers, he used to think first sergeants were wasting their time walking around the unit. He said now he knows it is essential that they are out there solving problems early, which is difficult for associate first sergeants because they have two full-time jobs. The commander relies on the first sergeant to be the eyes and ears of the unit. Also, the first sergeant ensures issues don't get elevated beyond the necessary level. "First sergeants are very elite. They dedicate their lives to benefit others." said Sergeant Pierce, "We are humbly holding this position until a diamond arrives." Sgt. Pierce said he was given this duty by his commander when the former first shirt retired in September 2007. That night he was called in because two Airmen were drinking underage. He said although that doesn't happen on a regular basis, he went to bed that night wondering what he got himself into. Since, he has helped single parents feed their children; he has helped Airmen get out of financial and domestic problems, and he has helped Airmen in various other situations. "The good things you do for people make it all worthwhile." He said. Master Sgt. Pierce said he admires first sergeants for their emotional strength. "I love it, but it takes a lot of stamina." he said, "I've went home worn out, mentally and emotionally." He said first sergeants are always on call and don't get a break. "My biggest piece of advice is for senior NCOs to offer to cover the position on occasion. You can learn so much." He said.