MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. -- Brothers and Sisters at Arms, family members and special guests, assembled to witness the ceremonial induction of 88 Airmen into the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer and Non-Commissioned Officer ranks at the March Field Cultural Resource Center, April 22.

The presiding official for the 452 AMW Top 3 induction ceremony was Brig. Gen. Karl McGregor, 452 Air Mobility Wing commander, accompanied by ceremony guest speaker, Chief Master Sgt. Cheryl Wente, acting 452 command chief. Distinguished guests in attendance included Col. Robert Weisenberger, Col. Mark Sigler and Lt. Col. Aaron Heick.

The singing of the National Anthem by Mrs. Laura Adkins the wife of a 912th ARS active duty member set the tone.

"These NCOs now face another transition in their Air Force career as they enter into the Senior NCO and NCO corps. Being a noncommissioned officer is more than acquiring skills, passing boards or completing courses. It is a change in mindset that says, I will be professional at all times and in all ways," stated Senior Master Sgt. Michael Minton, operations superintendent, and master of ceremony. "Because of their leadership ability, courage, knowledge and other qualities, NCOs have always been referred to as the backbone of the Air Force. An organization's success or failure and strengths or weaknesses can be directly attributed to the effectiveness of its NCO corps."

Minton explained that this ceremony is a continuation of Air Force tradition and it welcomes those selected for advancement to the Senior NCO and NCO corps. This rite of passage celebrates the newly promoted and emphasizes their need to build on the pride shared as members of such an elite group. They serve to honor the memory of those men and women of the NCO corps who have served with pride and distinction.

Senior Master Sgt. Josephine Carrillo and Tech. Sgt. Steven Scott had the honors of reading the charging documents. As NCO's stood and accepted their charges, they were met with responsibilities such as ensuring personnel and resources under their control were effectively used and to present an image of competence, integrity and pride; the image of a professional NCO.

Next, Senior NCOs were charged with actions such as holding their allegiance to country, devotion to duty and personal integrity above all. They will strive to merit the respect of fellow senior noncommissioned officers and of all with whom they come in contact.

One of the highlights of the induction ceremony was the reciting of the Airman's Creed lead by Senior Master Sgt. Eric Butt, 912th Air Refueling Squadron first sergeant, which energized the auditorium with a sense of pride and accomplishment. This was a perfect ending to a well-deserved induction of the new Senior NCOs and NCOs.

(Contributions from Senior Master Sgt. Mark Dunn, 452 MXS/MXMP)