Tuesday, August 25  //  Wednesday, August 26  //  Thursday, August 27  //  Friday, August 28, 2020

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AFSAvPAC 2020 VIDEOS

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~ TUESDAY, August 25, 2020 ~
10:00 am – 11:00 am (EST)
AFSA International President’s Annual Brief
CMSgt (Retired) Michael R. Carton
 
11:00 am – 12:00 am
Professional Development Forum: 
Resiliency with Dr. Russell Ledet
 
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Legislative Up-to-the-Minute Update
with Matthew Schwartzman
 
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
AFSA International Executive Director’s
Annual Brief - Keith A. Reed, MBA
 
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Professional Development Forum: 
Five Voices with Mark Tilsher

~ WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2020 ~
10:30 am to 11:15 am (EST)
Professional Development Forum: LIVE with Senior Leadership Perspective with General Charles Q "CQ" Brown, Chief of Staff, United States Air Force

11:30 am to 2:00 pm (EST)
Virtual AFSA & AFSA International and CMSAF Awards Ceremony with Special Guest Speaker CMSAF#5 Robert D. "Bob" Gaylor

2:00 pm to 3:00 pm (EST)
Professional Development Forum: Financial Readiness with 
CMSgt (Ret) Gerardo Tapia, USAA Air Force Relationship Director and​ LTC (Ret) Joseph “JJ” Montanaro, USAA Military Advocacy Director

3:00 pm to 4:00 pm (EST)
Professional Development Forum: Senior Leadership Perspective with CMSgt Roger Towberman, Senior Enlisted Advisor of the U.S. Space Force

~ THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2020 ~
10:00 am to 11:00 am (EST)
Professional Development Forum: Leading on Purpose
with Dr. Kevin Basik, Basik Insight, LLC

12:00 noon to 1:00+ pm (EST)
Professional Development Forum:
CMSgt (Retired) Anthony Brinkley, On the Brink Consulting

2:00 pm to 3:00 pm (EST)
Professional Development Forum: 
​Air University K12 (Public Education as a Readiness Issue)

3:00 pm to 4:00 pm (EST)
Professional Development Forum: Former CMSAF Panel ​

​~ FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2020 ~
10:00 am to 11:00 am (EST)
Professional Development Forum: Building Empathetic Leaders with CMSgt (Retired) Todd Simmons, Courageous Leadership Alliance

11:15 am (EST)
LIVE DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS!
​
12:00 noon to 1:00+ pm (EST)
Professional Development Forum: Senior Leadership Perspective with ​DIAMOND ONE - CMSgt Nathaniel M. Perry Jr.

2:00 pm to 3:00 pm (EST) - UPDATE!
Professional Development Forum: Senior Leadership Perspective
​with CMSAF JoAnne Bass (AF/CCC)​

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PAC AWARD RECIPIENTS

SHARE YOUR COMMENTS WITH US NOW!

Congratulations to our AFSAvPAC2020
​Door Prize winners!
• John Herbert Wyatt - $50 Gift Card sponsored by USAA

• William McMullen, Delaware – $50 Gift Card sponsored by USAA

• David Salgado, Armed Forces Europe – AF Enlisted Village Swag Bag

• Byron Hayes, Texas - $50 Gift Card sponsored by USAA

• VaTema Ivy, Florida - $50 Gift Card sponsored by USAA

• Jamie Prince, Louisiana – iPad sponsored by PEARL/AFSA Insurance

• Scott Turner, Texas - $50 Gift Card sponsored by USAA

• Joshua Wessling, Florida - $50 Gift Card sponsored by USAA

• Ryan Munoz, New Jersey – AFSA Member for Life
We'll contact you to confirm addresses and begin to ship Monday! Thank you to all who entered! 
​#AFSAgivesback #afsamissionpartners

AIRMAN OF THE YEAR
Division 4 : SrA Matthew Ketterling, Div 4, Ch 652, Keesler AFB, MS

NCO OF THE YEAR
Division 2:  MSgt Oliver S. Freche, Div 2, Ch 553, Tyndall AFB, FL

AFSA MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Division 2:  MSgt Jennifer Hall, Div 2, Ch 358, Langley AFB, VA 

AFSA FAMILY MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Division 3:  Ms. Wanda G. Kiefer, Div 3, Ch 804, Kansas City, MO       

WILLIAM H. PITSENBARGER HEROISM AWARD
Staff Sergeant Eric Z. Dahl - 4-year scholarship from American Military University 

2019 AFSA INTERNATIONAL L. MENDEL RIVERS AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Representative Julia Brownley (D-CA)

2019 AFSA INTERNATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN MILITARY LEADERSHIP AWARD
CMSAF Kaleth O. Wright

2019 AFSA INTERNATIONAL AMERICANISM AWARD
Airman Heritage Foundation

INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTS AWARDS
TSgt Lee R. Thompson Award of Excellence Winner: Chapter 1056, Dyess AFB, TX

MSgt Bennie McGehee President's Award - 
​MSgt DeShon Hall, Chapter 1261 Davis Monthan AFB, AZ

President's Esprit De Corps Award - none
 
Exemplary Achievement Award 
Individual: CMSgt Lisa Arnold, Chapter 1330 Los Angeles AFB, CA

Chapter: Chapter 1320, Travis AFB, CA Chapter 1201, Kirtland AFB, NM




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CMSAF AWARDS

USAF FIRST SERGEANTS OF THE YEAR
MSgt Shannon L. Tabor

USAF Military Training Leader of the Year: 
TSgt Landon M. Spaulding
 
USAF Military Training Instructor of the Year: 
MSgt Bobby M. Johnson
 
USAF Base Honor Guard Manager of the Year: 
TSgt Jarad D. Hudgies Jr.
 
USAF Base Honor Guard Member of the Year: 
TSgt Meldion Shehu
 
USAF Recruiter of the Year Air Force Reserve Command: 
MSgt Marquise Heard
 
Retention Office Manager of the Year Air National Guard: 
MSgt Talitacumi Acevedo
 
USAF Recruiter of the Year Air Force Active Duty: 
TSgt Jeremiah Camper

2019 SKYHigh Nominees
Ketterling, Matthew, Chapter 652
Tarpley, Ryan, Chapter 1054
Kazumura, Daniel, Chapter 652
Gallup, Gregory, Chapter 1076
Lamotta, Anthony, Chapter 1054
Ceskowski, Sharon, Chapter 1054
Johnson, Herlinda, Chapter 1056
Mendenhall, Ethan, Chapter 652 
Kazmir, Bobby, Chapter 972
Johnson, Justin, Chapter 1056
Haddix, Seth, Chapter 652
Lurita Sanchez, Jose, Chapter 652          
Rogers, Matthew, Chapter 652
Alvarado, Destani, Chapter 652
Squires, Shannon, Chapter 652
Harris, Devin, Chapter 652
Bartlett, Zachary, Chapter 652            
Hogan, Brianna, Chapter 652                          
Garcia, Romero, Chapter 652
Sommers, Hannah, Chapter 652
Nelson, Ashley, Chapter 652
Williams, Jamal, Chapter 652
Padgett, Michael, Chapter 652
Hosley, Willis, Chapter 652
Castillo, Carlos, Chapter 652

​2019 HIGHFlier Nominees 

• Kolwitz, Roland, Chapter 851
• Gallup, Gregory, Chapter 1076

2019 TWINFlier Nominees

• Dembinski, Frederick, Chapter 751
• 2019 Top Recruiter 
• Matthew Ketterling, Chapter 652

2019 Top Retainer 

• Roland Kolwitz, Chapter 851

2019 Top Recruiting Chapter
Chapter 652, Division 4

2019 Top Retaining Chapter - None

AFSA Legislative Award (Individual) Winner
Division 3: MSgt (ret) Terry L. Turner, Ch 985, Tinker AFB, OK

AFSA VAVS Award Winner
Division 3: Ms. Helen Hatz, Ch 804, Kansas City, MO

AFSA Volunteer Service Award (VSA) Individual) Winner
Division 2: TSgt Erin Story, Ch 554, Eglin AFB, FL

AFSA International Membership Achievement Award Winner
Division 4: SMSgt (ret) Daniel Kazumura, Ch 652, Keesler AFB, MS

AFSA CMSgt Richard L. Etchberger Chapter Communication Award Winner
Division 3: Ch 951, Ellsworth AFB, SD

AFSA CMSgt Richard L. Etchberger Division Communication Award Winner
Division 3, Mascoutah, IL

AFSA International Legislative Award (Chapter) Winner
Division 3: Ch 804, Kansas City, MO

AFSA Volunteer Service Award (VSA) Chapter Winner
Division 4: Ch 652, Keesler AFB, MS

AFSA Humanitarian Service Award Winner
Division 4: Ch 652, Keesler AFB, MS

AFSA Chapter of the Year Under 500 Winner
Division 3: Ch 964, Grand Forks, ND

AFSA Chapter of the Year Over 500 Winner
Division 4: Ch 652, Keesler AFB, MS
​
2019 Family Focused Scholarship
Alyssa Martin

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Thank you to our generous Mission Partners - Please support them as they support us!

​For almost 100 years, USAA has proudly served the financial needs of the military and their families.
With USAA, you’re more than a member, you’re part of the family we serve.
​Learn more at usaa.com/afsa or call 877-499-AFSA (2372)

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The AFSA Member Insurance Program offers group insurance plans exclusively to members of the Air Force Sergeants Association. Like you, your brothers and sisters at the AFSA Member Insurance Program understand the importance of protection, loyalty, devotion, service, and trust. 
To learn more and enroll visit: https://afsainsurance.com/

CONTACT: Carl Childs, USAF (Retired), Manager, Military Outreach
[email protected]  |   800.977.8449  ext: 1813
1982 University Lane | Orange Beach, AL 36561
ColumbiaSouthern.edu

CONTACT: ​Chris Deckard, MA
Education Outreach Representative, USAF Veteran, Waldorf University
877.267.2157 ext. 1727
Waldorf.edu

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CONTACT: Dan Roby 
AVP Military Outreach [email protected]
and/or ​Dan Allen, Director
Military Outreach [email protected]

CONTACT: Tonya Borcherding
214-312-2216
[email protected]
​www.aafes.com

CONTACT:
​VaTema M. Ivy, CMSgt (Ret)
Director of Development
T: 850.651.8227
www.afev.us | [email protected]

CONTACT:
​Chris McCollor
603-851-8176
[email protected]
​www.snhu.edu

CONTACT: Latoya Crowe​
Director of Communications 
and Development 
(703) 972-2643
[email protected]
www.afas.org

CONTACT:
Brea Butler-Estep
​SweetTreatsbyBrea
​@gmail.com

CONTACT:
301-899-2500 x 297
afsabusinesscenter@
​hqafsa.org

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AFSAvPAC2020 Professional Development Speakers and Bios

VIEW OUR AFSAVPAC2020 SPEAKERS AND THEIR BIOS

CMSgt (Ret) Michael R. Carton
AFSA International President

Chief Master Sergeant (Retired) Michael R. Carton currently serves as  the 27th Air Force Sergeants Association’s International President.   In this capacity, he is responsible for the management and oversight of seven divisions, 125 individual chapters, and over 100,000 enlisted members and their families located around the world.  The membership  
is comprised of Active Duty, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, and family members.  He has also served as the Association’s 23rd International President, International Vice President, Division 8  President, and the President of the Bud Andrews Gateway Chapter 872 at Scott AFB.  He has served on and chaired numerous International, Division, and Chapter committees throughout his AFSA career.  He enlisted in the Air Force in February 1968 and retired from active duty in July 1995.  His post military career included employment in the private sector and with defense contractors and finally as an Air Force Civil Servant.  He retired from civil service in 2015, moving to  St James North Carolina, where he serves with the town’s Emergency Management Team.  Send questions now for review, research and consideration. 

Russell J. Ledet, PhD
Tulane University School of Medicine | M.D.-M.B.A. Candidate, May 2022 

Dr. Russell J. Ledet is a native of Lake Charles, Louisiana. Prior to his education journey, Dr. Ledet was enlisted in the U.S. Navy, both on active and reserve duty. His first assignment was as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman in the Nation’s Capital from 2004 to early 2007. He subsequently completed Navy cryptology training in Pensacola, Florida, and was later assigned to the USS John L. Hall (FFG-32), based in Mayport, Florida. Dr. Ledet has been awarded multiple Navy Achievement Medals for his leadership, and tenacious work ethic. After 5 years of active duty service, Dr. Ledet transitioned to the USN Reserves, based in Corey Station, Pensacola, Florida, while also attending Southern University and A&M College. He completed his Bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and Biology. Russell then went on to obtain his Ph.D. in molecular oncology and tumor immunology from NYU School of Medicine. His scientific work focused on prostate cancer biology and therapeutic development utilizing proteomics and bioinformatics. This work was recognized for funding by the Ford Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, as well as the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Upon completing his PhD, he then began his medical training journey at the Tulane School of Medicine and Freeman School of Business. Since starting medical school, Dr. Ledet has co-founded The 15 White Coats, a world-renowned company that helps to propel underrepresented minority students to the next levels of education by providing inspiration and economic support. Dr. Ledet has been featured on CNN, MSNBC, People Magazine, NPR, Washington Post, Fox Soul, and most recently the Kelly Clarkson show. He plans to go into residency for child and adolescent psychiatry, with a focus on mental health for young black girls and boys. He is a husband of 14 years to Mallory Alise, and the father of two little girls, Maleah Ann and Mahlina Abri.  

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Matthew Schwartzman
Military & Government Affairs Policy Adviser, Legislative Affairs
As AFSA’s Policy Advisor, Legislative Affairs, Matthew specializes in tracking legislation encompassed within the scope of AFSA’s legislative platform and meets regularly with members of Congress, department officials at the VA, leading White House officials, and VSO’s / MSO’s to improve the quality of life for AFSA's 100,000+ members. 

​On Tuesday, August 25, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm EST, at this year’s Virtual Professional Airmen's Conference and Virtual Professional Education and Development Symposium, Matthew will be providing viewers with an “Up-to-the-Minute Update” on all thing's legislation; including a full in-depth look into the current status of military pay-raises, the immense transformations currently reshaping the Military Healthcare System as we know it,  the ground-breaking comprehensive reforms made to the conditions of and oversight over privatized military housing units, the FY2020 and FY2021 National Defense Authorization Acts, and more! 
Send in your questions now for review, research and consideration to [email protected]

Take Action Now - become an integral member of the AFSA Legislative Action Team here...

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Mark Tilsher
Senior Consultant, GiANT Worldwide

Mark Tilsher, is a Senior Consultant with GiANT Worldwide.  He and his wife Angela have been married for 19 years and have been blessed with 4 children, and the world’s greatest Service Dog.  He served our country in the United States Air Force for 21 years and has been stationed in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and in East Asia. He is also an international keynote speaker, engaging with leaders in senior positions all across the globe.  On top of that, in his spare time, he’s hosted a Top 40 Podcast in the Apple iTunes directory and is the current host of The Military Sherpa Podcast.  Mark has the heart of a Teacher, Coach, and Liberator, and wakes up every day ready to fight for the highest possible good in the lives of those you lead.  ​Schedule a Call Now!

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Terrence (Tdub) William - We're sorry due to unforeseen copyright issues, this event has been cancelled.
​Tdub "Thee" Entertainer

Get ready for a virtual dance party with "Thee" Entertainer Tdub! Don't miss our special Award Nominee Spotlights, Sponsor Highlights, shout-outs and more! 
Tech Sgt. Terrance Williams joined the Air Force in 1997 as a Security Forces Defender, deploying nine times to the Middle East, five of those were to Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. At one point he was stationed at the busiest airfield in the Department of Defense and faced 125+ indirect fire attacks while he protected 30,000 coalition forces and $3 billion in military assets. His first combative deployment was to Kirkuk, Iraq in 2006 where he said, “That deployment was an eye-opener. It was the first time I had been in a combat zone, and I saw a lot of bad things happen.” Terrance went on 4 more back-to-back combat deployments after the trip to Kirkuk, further deepening the issues he developed. He says his involvement with AFW2, “Got me out of my shell. It showed me there was more I could do and that I don’t need to identify myself with my particular issue.” He believes that you should try everything and never quit saying, “You might find that the sports you thought you could no longer do are there for you and you only need to adapt a little bit to be successful.”
Awards and Decorations: AF Commendation Medal w/4 OLC AF Achievement Medal w/3 OLC Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal

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Keith A. Reed, MBA
AFSA International Executive Director

As the Executive Director, Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA),  Keith is responsible for leading a talented and dedicated Headquarters  staff that serves 100,000 dues-paying members world-wide. Overseeing its daily operations, lobbying and member engagement and support,  Keith brings over 20 years of AFSA-experience that positively connects leadership at all levels along with the veteran and military audience to  ensure AFSA continues to advocate on behalf of the Total Forces, their  families and survivors.  

AFSA is a federally chartered, 501(c) (19) non-profit organization representing the professional and personal interests of Airmen from every era, every Component, and their families.  The Association was founded and incorporated on May 3, 1961 and has evolved into an organization highly respected by congressional members as well as by leaders in the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.  AFSA works closely with national leadership to aid in maintaining a superior aerospace defense and protect the personal and professional interests of past, present, and future Airmen.  Keith is a graduate of Leadership Montgomery; a 9-month community leader professional development course.  He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration/Human Resources and an MBA in Management from Strayer University.    

Keith also serves as the President, Airmen Memorial Foundation and Secretary, Board for Directors, Airmen Memorial Foundation and President and Secretary of the Board of Directors, The Enlisted Foundation.  Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​​

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Charles Quinton "CQ" Brown, Jr.
A United States Air Force General, General Brown was nominated to Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force on March 2, 2020 by President Donald Trump and confirmed by Congress on June 9, 2020. Brown served as commander of Pacific Air Forces, air component commander for United States Indo-Pacific Command and executive director of the Pacific Air Combat Operations Staff. He previously served as the deputy commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM), MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. Before serving as the deputy commander of CENTCOM, he was the Commander Air Forces Central. As the air component commander for CENTCOM, he was responsible for developing contingency plans and conducting air operations in a 20-nation area of responsibility covering Central and Southwest Asia.[3] He took over Pacific Air Forces from acting commander Jerry Martínez on July 26, 2018. On June 9, 2020, Brown was confirmed as the first African American Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force. He is scheduled to begin his four year term on August 6, 2020

Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr. was previously the commander of Pacific Air Forces; Air Component Commander for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command; and Executive Director, Pacific Air Combat Operations Staff, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. PACAF is responsible for Air Force activities spread over half the globe in a command that supports more than 46,000 Airmen serving principally in Japan, Korea, Hawaii, Alaska and Guam.

Gen. Brown was commissioned in 1984 as a distinguished graduate of the ROTC program at Texas Tech University. He has served in a variety of positions at the squadron and wing levels, including an assignment to the U.S. Air Force Weapons School as an F-16 Fighting Falcon Instructor. His notable staff tours include Aide-de-Camp to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force; Director, Secretary of the Air Force and Chief of Staff Executive Action Group; and Deputy Director, Operations Directorate, U.S. Central Command. He also served as a National Defense Fellow at the Institute for Defense Analyses, Alexandria, Virginia.

Gen. Brown has commanded a fighter squadron, the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, two fighter wings and U.S. Air Forces Central Command. Prior to commanding Pacific Air Forces, he served as the Deputy Commander, U.S. Central Command.  Gen. Brown is a command pilot with more than 2,900 flying hours, including 130 combat hours. 
Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​​

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CMSAF#5 Robert D. "Bob" Gaylor
5th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force from 1977 to 1979

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor was adviser to Secretary of the Air Force John C. Stetson and Chiefs of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David C. Jones and Gen. Lew Allen Jr. on matters concerning welfare, effective utilization and progress of the enlisted members of the Air Force. He was the fifth chief master sergeant appointed to this ultimate non-commissioned officer position.

Chief Gaylor was born in Bellevue, Iowa; however, most of his youth was spent in Indiana. He entered the Air Force in September 1948 and was assigned to the security police career field, in which he served until 1957. In September 1957 he served as a military training instructor at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, until February 1962. He then returned to the security police field until July 1965. During Chief Gaylor's security police years, his early assignments were at James Connally Air Force Base, Texas; Laredo Air Force Base, Texas; Kunsan Air Base, Korea; Tachikawa Air Base, Japan; Columbus Air Force Base, Miss.; and Barksdale Air Force Base, La.

Chief Gaylor is an avid speaker, sharing motivation and words of wisdom for military members and the general public. You can view his infamous TedTalk on "Hot Fries" here...

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Chief Master Sergeant Roger A. Towberman
Senior Enlisted Advisor of the United States Space Force and Command Senior Enlisted Leader of United States Space Command

​Chief Towberman represents the highest enlisted level of leadership, and as such, provides direction for the enlisted force and represents their interests, as appropriate, to the American public and to those in all levels of government. He serves as the personal adviser to the Chief of Space Operations and the Secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale, proper utilization and development of the U.S. Space Force.  He is the first enlisted member of the U.S. Space Force and the first to be appointed to its highest enlisted position.

As the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for USSPACECOM, Chief Towberman advises the Commander on all matters related to space forces providing tailored, responsive, theater and global space effects in support of national objectives.  USSPACECOM is responsible for deterring conflict, defending U.S and Allied freedom of action in space, delivering combat-relevant space capability to Joint and combined forces and developing space forces to advance US and Allied interests in, through and from the space domain. 

Chief Towberman entered the Air Force in September 1990 and his career included various duties as a ground and airborne cryptologic language and intelligence analyst. Throughout his career, he filled myriad leadership roles at the squadron, group, wing, Numbered Air Force, Major Command and Combatant Command level, while stateside, overseas and deployed.  His deployments included supporting Operations Joint Forge, Allied Force, Northern Watch, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and Unified Protector. As a Career Enlisted Aviator, he logged more than 4,500 flying hours.  He entered the United States Space Force on 3 April 2020.  Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​​

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Gerardo Tapia
USAA Air Force Relationship Director

Gerardo “Tap” Tapia joined USAA in August 2016 and is presently assigned to the Military Affairs Unit as a Military Affairs Relationship Director. Tap spent 31 years in the United States Air Force before retiring in July 2016 as the Command Chief for Air Education and Training Command.  In his role he was the adviser to the Commander of AETC on matters concerning the health, welfare and proper utilization of over 65 thousand enlisted members in the Air Force. His permanent and temporary duty assignments included an assignment in the Pentagon, United States Air Force Academy, Alaska, Alamogordo NM, Tucson and Kandahar Afghanistan and travel to over 40 countries. Tap is responsible for deepening and sustaining business relationships with senior Air Force enlisted and officer personnel to facilitate USAA's efforts to be the Provider of Choice. He maintains continuous dialogue with influencers through command visits to military installations, speaking engagements, exploitation of military marketing/sponsorship opportunities and by supporting military recognition programs. He assists in resolving member issues and problems by providing feedback to USAA following member contact. He is responsible for business development, project management and provides background and demographic intelligence for market segment analysis. Tap is a military subject matter expert who provides consultation to the Enterprise on a variety of internal efforts to develop employee understanding of military culture and empathy for service members and their families. He delivers presentations and the Deployment Exercise to NEO. He assists in the execution of Veterans and Memorial Day events and participates in other military awareness efforts. He is an advisor member to the Air Force Association’s Retire Council. He and his wife Alice have a son, Geronimo and daughter Analisa.  Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​​

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LTC (Ret) Joseph “JJ” Montanaro
USAA Military Advocacy Director

Joseph "JJ" Montanaro is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER professional (CFP®). He is a native of Kansas City and earned his bachelor’s degree from the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York. He also holds a Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University. JJ is a member of the Financial Planning Association and a director on the USAA Military Advocacy team.
 
He has more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and joined USAA in 2002. Before entering the financial services industry, he served in the US Army for six years on active duty and in 2009 he retired as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Reserve.
 
JJ's daily focus has been to help families realize their goals and his advice has appeared in numerous outlets including the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNNMoney.com and the New York Times. He writes monthly personal finance columns for Military Spouse Magazine, American Legion Magazine and is a regular contributor to Military.com’s personal finance section.  Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​

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Dr. Kevin Basik (PhD; Air Force Lt Col [retired])
Founder and President, Basik Insight, LLC - Helping create leaders of character for business and life.

Dr. Kevin Basik has spent over 23 years studying and applying values-based leadership development.  He is an internationally-recognized speaker, a published scholar, an award-winning instructor, a recognized developmental expert, and most importantly– a proven leader.

A 1993 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Kevin earned his Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Virginia Tech, and his PhD in Organizational Behavior from Florida State University’s College of Business, studying the concept of “behavioral integrity” as a driver of trust, accountability and performance.
Kevin has successfully led in positions ranging from small units to international organizations of over 16,000 members.   In addition, he personally directed and delivered highly-recognized leadership development programs for students, faculty, managers, law enforcement officers, elite athletes, senior government officials and Fortune 500 corporate executives.
He is a 23-year officer veteran of the US Air Force, and in his most recent assignment, served as one of the top advisors to Pentagon senior leaders on issues of Professionalism and values-based leadership, impacting the development of 3.2 million Active Duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian employees across the Department of Defense (DoD).  He is recognized as one of the DoD’s top thought leaders in leadership development, and has traveled around the world speaking to service members at all levels on professionalism and ethical leadership.
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Kevin is the President of BasikInsight, a company dedicated to energizing, enlightening and equipping organizations to lead with character.

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Anthony Brinkley 
CEO, On the Brink Consulting

Anthony Brinkley is a recognized leadership expert, motivational speaker and a change agent. AS CEO of On the Brink Consulting, a leadership development firm providing expert training, motivational speaking, and team building to military, government, private organizations, as well as not for profit entities.  Prior to starting his firm, he was the former Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 11th Wing of Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. He served as the principal advisor to the commander on all enlisted issues and was responsible for all personnel, logistic and workforce development matters.
With over 28 years of military experience and over half of those years in leadership roles, Anthony Brinkley is sought after by organizations to lead them through “change that guarantees the right results.” His leadership expertise spans all levels of organizational development to include: facilities infrastructure, human resource development, logistical analysis, enterprise deployment, national security strategies, IT program management, budget management, air lift training/security of staff and radar site development for missile deployment. He holds several critical certifications, to include Myers Briggs and Six Sigma.
During his military career, Anthony Brinkley obtained Chief Master Sergeant distinction, a leadership position achieved by only 1% of the enlisted Air Force. He has provided oversight for $3B worth of aviation assets. He has managed over 130,000 people in over 13 bases across the world, to include Korea, Turkey and the Philippines.

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Former CMSAF Panel
Developing Leaders for over 43 years - the Former Chief Master Sergeants of the Air Force Panel Discussion is an annual highlight at the AFSA Professional Airmen's Conferences. You won't want to miss this treasure-trove of advice, shared stories, comments and laughter from the Chiefs who have seen and most likely done it all! Here's a few excepts of past discussions:

CMSAF#8 Sam Parish: The key to successfully developing Airmen is mentorship. When I came into the service in 1954, my mentor for the first four years of my Air Force Life taught me, and made me do things that I knew damn well I couldn't. Yet, he made me do them - but never let me fail while I was doing them. And, I've tried to be that type of leader my entire Air Force career. Helping those that need the help. And, I've also been known for crashing those that didn't take the help.

Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​

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CMSgt (Retired) Todd Simmons
Founder and President of the Courageous Leadership Alliance

Todd has an international reputation in the field of education and leadership development. Todd served over 25 years in the U.S. Air Force, including assignments in both the Pacific and European regions for 17 years. His final position in the Air Force was Command Chief for Air University where he led the professional development and education for 50,000 resident and 120,000 non-resident Air Force affiliated students each year.
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Todd is on a mission to create a coalition of change agents to build healthy organizational cultures with courageous leaders. With over 25 years of experience in leading complex organizations, Todd is an authentic voice in the leadership arena–from building top-performing teams, to successfully managing change, to redesigning organizations to optimize effectiveness and morale, to communicating within and across cultures to achieve the best possible solutions.

He has worked with NASA, The Association for Talent Development, Brasfield & Gorrie, USTRANSCOM, USAF First Sergeant Academy, and several other defense and corporate organizations.  He is a regular guest on popular podcasts to include CMSAF #18 "The New Normal" and AFWERX "Disruptive AF"  |  [email protected]

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CMSgt Nathaniel M. Perry, Jr. 
Air Force First Sergeant Special Duty Manager

Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​​

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CMSAF JoAnne Bass (AF/CCC)
Chief Master Sgt. JoAnne S. Bass was selected June 19 to become the 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, becoming the first woman in history to serve as the highest ranking non-commissioned member of a U.S. military service. Like previous CMSAFs, she will be the public face of Air Force enlisted personnel and those in all levels of government. As noted by Brown, she will be a personal adviser to the chief of staff and Department of the Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett on issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale and proper utilization and progress of more than 410,000 enlisted members.
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Chief Master Sergeant JoAnne S. Bass is the Command Chief Master Sergeant, Second Air Force, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi.  Chief Bass is the senior enlisted leader and advisor to the commander on all matters impacting the professional development, proper utilization, and the readiness of the enlisted corps.  The command consists of 4 training wings, 18 groups with 76 operating locations worldwide, in support of 13,000 enlisted, officers, civilians, contractors and 36,000 basic military trainees per year. In addition, Second Air Force is home to more than 260 Air Force specialties through 2,300 courses graduating 150,000 Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and international students annually in various fields including financial management, security forces, cyber, personnel, weather, civil engineer, and aircraft maintenance, while providing 93 percent of the Air Force’s initial skills training.     

Chief Bass was raised as an Army dependent, living in several overseas and stateside locations, prior to entering the Air Force in 1993.  Throughout her career, she has held a variety of leadership positions serving at the squadron, group, wing and major command levels.  She has significant joint service and special operations experience and has participated in several operations and exercises as well as deployments in direct support of Operations SOUTHERN WATCH, ENDURING FREEDOM, and IRAQI FREEDOM.  Prior to this assignment, Chief Bass served as the Chief, Air Force Enlisted Developmental Education, Pentagon, Washington D.C    
​Send questions now for review, research and consideration. ​

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MEET OUR MASTERS OF CEREMONIES

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STAFF SERGEANT IVAN R. ABREU
AFSC: 8T000, ALS Instructor
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Staff Sergeant Ivan R. Abreu is a Professional Military Education Instructor at CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School, 316th Wing, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Sergeant Abreu was born in Dominican Republic. At the age of 6 he migrated to Queens, New York. He successfully graduated from Central Islip Senior High School in 2006 and went on to study graphic design at The Fashion Institute of Technology. Sergeant Abreu is married with one son. On May 4th, 2010, Sergeant Abreu entered the United States Air Force and graduated basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. He went onto graduate from the Structural Apprentice Technical School in November 2010 from the Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport Mississippi and was then assigned to the 35th Civil Engineer Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan. While in Japan performed duties as a Structural Apprentice and Locksmith Apprentice. In 2012, Sergeant Abreu was deployed with the 338th Civil Engineer Squadron, Thumrait Air Base, Oman. His leadership and outstanding performance led to his selection as Senior Airman Below-the-Zone, Airman of the quarter and Airman of the year in 2012. Sergeant Abreu went on to F.E. Warren Air Force Base in August 2014 and was assigned to the 9th Civil Engineer Squadron. He deployed once again, this time to the 379th Civil engineer Squadron at AL Udeid, Air Base, Qatar. During his time at Al-Udeid Air Base he showed dedication and leadership while being assigned as team lead of the Structures Metal shop. While deployed he received orders to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland with his wife. Upon arrival to Joint Andrews, Maryland he quickly became to sought-out subject matter expert among his peers. In November 2018 Sergeant Abreu deployed once again and was assigned to the 332nd Civil Engineer Squadron. During this deployment Sergeant Abreu showed initiative, dedication and leadership as Non-Commissioned-Officer-In-Charge of the Structures shop where he oversaw the operation of 6 NCOs, and 7 Airmen in support and maintenance of 189 Facilities. Upon returning to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland Sergeant continued to excel as he became Non-Commissioned-Officer-In-Charge of the 316th Civil Engineer Structures Shop and oversaw operations over 22 Military and Civilian personnel in support of 389 facilities. In December 2019, Sergeant was selected to join the 316th Force Support Squadron as an Airman Leadership School Instructor. His military awards in the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon (Gold Border), Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service, USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Air Force Training Ribbon.

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STAFF SERGEANT KYMON G. CARRIKER
AFSC: 8T000, PME Instructor
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Staff Sergeant Kymon George Carriker is a Professional Military Education Instructor at the CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School, 316th Wing, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Sergeant Carriker was born in Thomaston, Georgia on 31 May 1990.  He successfully graduated, with honors, from Upson Lee High School in 2008.  Sergeant Carriker attended Georgia College and State University as a Music Education major and English minor in 2008 prior to joining the Air Force.  Sergeant Carriker entered the Air Force in December of 2009 and graduated from Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas in February of 2010. He continued his Air Force education and technical training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He was an Academic Excellence recipient and graduate of the Vehicle Operations Apprentice Course in March of 2010. After technical training, he was sent to Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota where he was assigned as a Vehicle Operator to the 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron. While stationed here, he served as the Unit Advisory Council’s secretary, received Volunteer of the Year for the Wing, and was coined by several senior leaders such as former commander, Air Force Education and Training Command, General (Retired) Edward A. Rice Jr. for superior performance.    After a year and 6 months, Sergeant Carriker received orders to Osan Air Base, Korea where he was assigned to the 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron. During this unique assignment, his professional attitude secured him the role as the Distinguished Visitor operator. He safely transported many Distinguished Visitors through the Republic of Korea. His most notable transport was a base tour for the former Secretary of the Air Force, Honorable Michael B. Donley where he was coined yet again for superior performance. During this period, Sergeant Carriker received Senior Airman Below the Zone, Airman of the Quarter, and ultimately, Airman of the Year. His excellence continued at his next assignment, Yokota Air Base, Japan. He was assigned to the 374th Logistics Readiness as a Vehicle Operations Dispatcher. In this role, he coordinated all logistical support for the wing. After a year, his leadership decided to move him to the Readiness flight as a Unit Deployment Manager. Within a year, he completely revitalized the training program and created a streamlined process to ease the deployment process for the unit. His efforts resulted in him winning Airman of the Quarter and as a new Staff, Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter. As his time came to an end, he received orders to his current assignment, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Sergeant Carriker was assigned to the 316th Logistics Readiness Squadron as the NCOIC, Executive Driver Service. In this role, he managed 5 airman and coordinated all logistical support for the CMSAF, Congressional Delegates, MAJCOM commanders, International Counterpart visits, and any General Officer that visited the National Capitol Region. Once again, his efforts did not go unnoticed. Thanks to his leadership, his entire team was personally recognized and coined by former Joint Chief of Staff, General (Retired) Frank J. Grass. His level of professionalism and expertise resulted in him being hand selected as the 316th Wing Command Chief Executive Assistant. In this role, he supported the Command Chief and was the conduit for 5 Wings and the local community. Finally, SSgt Carriker was chosen for his dream job and assigned to the 316th Force Support Squadron as an Airman Leadership School Instructor. Sergeant Carriker’s Military decorations include the Air Force Accommodation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, and NATO Medal. Sergeant Carriker received his Bachelors of Arts Degree in English from the University of Maryland University College, a CCAF in Logistics and Transportation, another CCAF in Military Training and Instructional Technology, and a CIC Level 2. He is currently pursuing his Master’s in Education Degree.

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STAFF SERGEANT ADAM B. GONZALEZ II
AFSC: 8T000, ALS Instructor
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Staff Sergeant Adam Banda Gonzalez II is a Professional Military Education Instructor at the CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School, 316th Wing, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Sergeant Gonzalez was born in Saginaw, Michigan on 16 September 1987. He successfully graduated from Heritage High School in June of 2006. He was the 2006 Mr. Saginaw and Mr. Michigan for the American G.I Form. Sergeant Gonzalez attended Delta College as a Health Fitness Promotion & Education Specialist. He interned at The Walt Disney World Resort Emporium in 2008, located in Magic Kingdom Orlando, Florida as a retail specialist. From there, he attended La Interamericana Universidad in San German, Puerto Rico in 2009 where studied Sports Technology. He wrestled on a scholarship and was a bronze medal recipient in the 92kg weight class for Las Justas. Sergeant Gonzalez entered the Delayed Entry Program in April 2009 where he trained intensely to become a Pararescuemen and joined the Air Force in May 2011. Sergeant Gonzalez was the Basic Military Training Top Honor Graduate at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas in June of 2011. He started his pipeline training 1 week after at Medina annex, San Antonio for the Pararescue Indoctrination course. Out of 254 trainees, he was of the 24 to successfully graduate. He attended S.C.U.B.A Dive School at the Naval Salvage Academy in Panama City, Florida October of 2011 where he qualified in open water circuit diving with Combat Controllers and was awarded his Dive bubble. He PCS’d to Kirtland AFB, New Mexico November of 2011 where he continued his pipeline training assigned to the 342nd Detachment 1 Training Squadron. From there, he attended Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia January of 2012 where he qualified in static line parachuting and awarded his Airborne Jump Wings. He started medical school at the University of New Mexico, School of Medicine March 2012 for Emergency Medical Technician-Basic where he successfully passed and became Nationally Registered. From there, he attended and completed the Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic course and became Nationally Registered where he performed his clinical rotation in Richmond, Virginia and successfully passed his skills, cognitive exam and hands on portion January, 2013. He attended the Naval Military Freefall School in San Diego, California, February 2013 where he joint collaborated with Naval SEALS and was awarded his H.A.L.O Jump Wings upon graduation. He attended SERE school at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Washington March of 2013 where he successfully graduated the SV-80A course and Egress course with TACP & CCT personal. He started the Pararescue Apprentice course June of 2013 where he performed training in Combat Medicine, High Angle Mountain Rescue, Air Ops, Water Ops, Weapons Phase, Land Navigation, Tactics & Field Training Exercise. Due to an unfortunate injury sustained in the field, he underwent surgery and was later retrained into the Civil Engineer carrier field. He continued his Air Force education and technical training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri as a Pavements and Construction Equipment Journeyman where he was an Academic Excellence graduate December of 2014. After technical training, he was sent to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland February 2015 and assigned to the 316th Civil Engineer Squadron. With his skills he became one of the first members from another unit to become part of the Emergency Services Team with the 316th Security Forces Squadron as a SWAT Medic, as well as a Combat Life Saver, Self Aid Buddy Care Instructor & MAC-P lvl 1 certified. His efforts helped JBA become installation of the year in 2015, followed by Best Civil Engineer Squadron of the year in 2016. He deployed April 2017 to Combat Skills Training, New Mexico as part of the Expeditionary Civil Engineer Group where he was part of the 577th RED HORSE Squadron. He spent time in Qatar, Kuwait and United Arab Emirates where his efforts earned and Air Force Achievement Medal and Unit Meritorious Award. At the Donald L. Harlow Airmen Leadership School he received the Top Male PT award, Male Fastest Run Time and the Commandant Award in May, 2018. He completed his 7 level upgrade training and became a Craftsman at his trade. From there, he led multiple victorious asphalt and concrete jobs to include Snow & Ice Control operations on Americas Airfield, keeping it 24 hour operable with no delays. His level of professionalism and adaptability resulted in him being hand selected as the 316th Mission Support Group Chief Executive Assistant. In this role, he supported the MSG Superintendent and was the conduit for 6 Squadrons and the local community. Finally, SSgt Gonzalez was chosen for a new passion for Motivating & Educating Airmen and assigned to the 316th Force Support Squadron as an Airman Leadership School Instructor at Joint Base Andrews. Sergeant Gonzalez’s Military decorations include the Air Force Achievement Medal, Operation Inherit Resolve Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal (2 Oak Leaf Cluster), National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. Sergeant Gonzalez completed his CCAF in Construction Technology. He is currently pursuing his Bachelors in Science for Sports and Health Sciences with a concentration in Exercise Science at the American Military University.  

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MASTER SERGEANT NOAH C. LEITER
AFSC: 8T000, ALS Commandant
 
Master Sergeant Noah C. Leiter is the Commandant at the CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School, 316th Wing, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.  Sergeant Leiter was born in Carthage, Missouri on 15 August 1985.  He graduated Carthage High School in 2004.  After high school, Sergeant Leiter enlisted and attended Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.  He continued on to technical training at Louis F. Garland Fire Academy at Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angelo, Texas.  He graduated from the academy in March of 2005.  Sergeant Leiter’s first duty assignment was to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona as a firefighter.  Sergeant Leiter deployed out of Davis-Monthan on his first two deployments to LSA Anaconda, Iraq and Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates as a lead rescue man and crew chief in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM.  In 2011, Sergeant Leiter received orders to Royal Air Force Mildenhall, United Kingdom.  He served as a fire inspector and Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention during his assignment.  Sergeant Leiter deployed as an advisor to Forward Operating Base Oqab, Afghanistan in support of Operation FREEDOMS SENTINEL as an Air Advisor to the development of Afghanistan’s Air Force.  He was the lead advisor to the development of the Afghanistan’s 7 major fire departments across the country where he traveled to train, advise and equip the critical response capability of their military.  Sergeant Leiter’s continued onward to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri as an Assistant Chief of Operations, responsible for the protection of the $44B B-2 stealth bomber inventory fleet.  He managed 13 emergency vehicles, and a 26 firefighter shift.  His career shifted when he was selected for retraining into the Logistics Plans career field in 2017.  After completing training, he returned to Whiteman Air Force Base for a year.  He deployed twice out of Whiteman supporting two remote locations in the Pacific theatre with the B-2 bomber to support the Bomber Assurance and Deterrence and Bomber Task Force Air Force Global Strike missions.  He continued his career to Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea in 2018.  He was the Section Chief of Pacific Air Force’s largest Installation Deployment Readiness Cell.  At the Air Force’s most forward-deployed air base, he provided direction to contingency wartime planning to the Fighter Wing during the denuclearization peace talks on the unstable Korean peninsula.  Sergeant Leiter received orders to Joint Base Andrews in late 2019 where he was assigned the Superintendent for the National Capital Region’s largest Installation Deployment Readiness Cell.  He supported the deployment and execution of 17,000 Airmen tasked to 3 Higher Headquarters, 5 Wings, and 84 mission partners while sustaining the President of the United States Continuity of Operations, Joint Service and Presidential Airlift Group operations and missions.  Sergeant Leiter was selected and assigned as the Commandant at the 316th Force Support Squadron, CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School in July of 2020.  His military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (one oak leaf cluster), Air Force Commendation Medal (three oak leaf clusters), Afghanistan Campaign Medal (two bronze stars), Iraqi Campaign Medal (one bronze star), and the Korean Defense Service Medal.  He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership.  He has completed two associates’ degrees in Fire Science and Logistics Chain Management.  He also has been awarded the Professional Management Certificate.

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STAFF SERGEANT DAVID GONZALEZ-MENDEZ
AFSC:  8T000, ALS Instructor
 
Staff Sergeant David Gonzalez-Mendez is a Professional Military Education Instructor at the CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School, 316th Wing, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Sergeant Gonzalez-Mendez was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico on 15 June 1989.  He successfully graduated from Domingo Aponte Collazo High School, Lares, Puerto Rico in 2007.  Sergeant Gonzalez-Mendez then attended the University of Puerto Rico in 2007.  He subsequently entered the Air Force in February 2011 and graduated from Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. He continued his Air Force education and technical training at Lackland AFB, graduating from the Security Forces Apprentice Course in July 2011.  Sergeant Gonzalez-Mendez was then assigned as a Security Forces Member in the 31st Security Forces Squadron at Aviano Air Base, Italy. Upon reporting to the unit he was notified of his selection to support Operation Odyssey Dawn as an entry controller.  During his time at Aviano Air Base he executed duties as an ISRT Member, Response Force Leader, Patrolman, Monitor Facility Operator and PL1 Area Supervisor. During this period, he was selected as Airman of the Quarter for the second Quarter of 2014.  He then received orders to Joint Base Andrews where he was assigned to the 316th Security Forces Group. There, he distinguished himself as Response Force Leader and Base Defense Operation Center Operator.  During this time, he deployed in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel.  While deployed he served as Base Defense Operator Center Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, Plans and Programs Clerk.  Upon returning from his deployment, Sergeant Gonzalez-Mendez achieved his first milestone in Professional Military Education as a graduate from the CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on 25 August 2016.  In February 2017, he entered the Professional Military Education field and was assigned to the 316th Force Support Squadron as an Airman Leadership School Instructor.  Sergeant Gonzalez-Mendez’s military decorations include the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal and NATO Medal.

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STAFF SERGEANT JENNIFER R. THACKER
AFSC: 8T000, ALS Instructor
 
Staff Sergeant Jennifer R. Thacker is a Professional Military Education Instructor at CMSAF Donald L. Harlow Airman Leadership School, 316th Wing, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Sergeant Thacker was born and raised in Southern California. She successfully graduated from Tustin High School in 2011 and went on to graduate with her Associate’s Degree in 2013 from Rancho Santiago College. On January 6th, 2014, Sergeant Thacker entered the United States Air Force and graduated basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. She went onto graduate from the Security Forces Apprentice School in June 2014 and was then assigned to the 316th Security Forces Squadron, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. She performed duties as Response Force Member. In 2015, Sergeant Thacker was deployed with the 176th Army Engineer Brigade to FOB, OQAB, Kabul, Afghanistan. Her team was detached from Security Forces and performed Guardian Angel and out the wire Personnel Security Detail convoys alongside the Afghanistan Airforce. Her team was later forwarded to Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, securing fly-away missions aboard Afghani MI-17’s. Upon her return, she was assigned to the 816th Security Forces Squadron at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Sergeant Thacker went on to attend and graduate from the United States Air Force Phoenix Raven Schoolhouse at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey in 2016. She was selected to join the Vice-Presidential Aircraft Security Team, serving from 2016 until January 2020. In 2018, Sergeant Thacker became the first female Phoenix Raven to receive the Vice-Presidential Service Badge. She represented the Airforce in 2018 at the 26th Annual Military National Powerlifting Championship, where she helped the Air Force team secure a 1st place win. Sergeant Thacker was awarded Air Force Athlete of the Year 2019 at the 316th Wing level.  January 2020, she entered the Professional Military Education Field and was assigned to the 316th Force Support Squadron as an Airman Leadership School Instructor. Sergeant Thacker’s Military decorations include the Vice-Presidential Service Badge, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal (1 oak leaf cluster), Afghanistan Campaign Medal, NATO Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award.

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