NCO Induction Ceremony Aug. 31

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Two weeks from now 80 senior airmen, who've spent the past few days calculating their upcoming pay raises, basking in congratulations and heaving a collective sigh of relief, will undergo a rite of passage before sewing on that coveted fourth stripe.

On Aug. 31, Team Sheppard's latest batch of staff sergeant selects will officially join the non-commissioned officer tier at the NCO Induction Ceremony, scheduled for 3 p.m. at the base theater, followed by a party at the Sheppard Club.

"I look forward to seeing Team Sheppard at our induction ceremony as we recognize the transition from the Airmen ranks to becoming a non-commissioned officer," said Chief Master Sgt. Jeannie McLean, 82nd Training Wing Command Chief.

For the inductees, there will also be an NCO enhancement seminar on Aug. 30 in Bldg. 1900's auditorium. In the spirit of Airman Leadership School, the seminar will feature guest speakers and discussions geared toward teaching the new staff-selects to view the military through an NCO's eyes.

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Akerson, project manager for the 82nd Communications Squadron and president of the NCO Induction Ceremony committee, is hoping for a big turnout.

"Even if you don't personally know anyone who made it, people should come," he said. "It's about something bigger than cheering on friends, it's about tradition. I hope every NCO who remembers what it felt like when they made staff will be there."

Sergeant Akerson also hopes for something not usually associated with a traditional, dignified ceremony: loud enthusiasm.

"Bring your noise makers and your squadron pride," he said. "This ceremony is about letting these new staff sergeants know we're proud of their accomplishment, and you can't do that with just polite applause. We want people on the next street to hear us."

Among those who'll hopefully hear thunderous cheers as they're brought into the NCO fold are three Airmen from the 82nd TRW, 14 from the 80th Flying Training Wing, five from the 82nd Training Group, three from the 782nd TRG, six from the 882nd TRG, one from the 982nd TRG, 17 from the 82nd Medical Group, 30 from the 82nd Mission Support Group and one from the Army Air Force Exchange Service.