New 161st Command Chief Continues Tradition of Honor

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Dillon Davis
  • 161st Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GOLDWATER AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Ariz. --  The 161st Air Refueling Wing welcomed its newest command chief during a change of responsibility ceremony here, Oct. 7, 2017.

The responsibilities that come with the title of command chief have a large impact on the success of the mission. Command chiefs are responsible for working alongside commanders to ensure that the wing’s enlisted Airmen are provided the many resources necessary to accomplish the mission. They are the pinnacle of enlisted leaders at the wing level and set the standard for excellence among enlisted Airmen for the future of the wing and the U.S. Air Force.

In order to fill such an important role here at the wing, nominees must display a history of outstanding performance and leadership. Arizona Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. Bert A. Reid is an ideal example of the type of person it takes to fill those shoes.

Since 1990, Reid has demonstrated commitment to the Arizona Air National Guard through professional leadership and support of private organizations and associations.

During the ceremony, Reid took the opportunity to speak to fellow Copperheads about his family legacy and layout his goals in his new leadership role at the 161st ARW.

“I’m really excited to start the next chapter of my Air Force story and serve as command chief,” Reid said. “My challenge to you is to strengthen one another, inspire every life you touch, and leave a lasting legacy.”

With the new duty position, Reid plans to honor his family’s military tradition and continue the success of the wing’s mission.

“I have been entrusted with a legacy. My dad served this country in the active component and then served many years as a Copperhead and ultimately retired as a Copperhead. My grandpa left me with a legacy of service and sacrifice. He gave his life for our country. Although I have been left this great legacy, the legacy is not finished yet.”

Reid concluded that although he has been left this great legacy, the legacy continues on.

“I still have work to do,” added Reid. “As your new command chief, I am committed to finishing strong for you, our unit, and for our Air Force.”