Commentary -- Qualities of a dedicated first sergeant

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Anthony J. Servian
  • 482nd Operations Support Squadron first sergeant
At 3 a.m. my wife nudges me when my cell phone begins to ring. I get out of bed thinking this better be important. Sure enough, it was one of my Airmen needing help.

This is the beginning of one of the many scenarios I've had to face as a first sergeant. Being a first sergeant in the Air Force is one of the most demanding jobs, especially as a traditional reservist. Because of the many responsibilities and sacrifices the position requires, few Airmen step up to the plate and undertake this critical position. Despite the challenges the position may present, it's one of the most rewarding jobs I've ever held in my Air Force career.

According to Air Force Instruction 36-2113, the first sergeant is a leader serving in a time honored special-duty position, rich in custom and tradition. The first sergeant works directly for, and derives his or her authority from, the commander and serves as the commander's critical link within the unit for all matters concerning enlisted members.

Besides a commander, there aren't many jobs that have the responsibility of being involved with every matter concerning the enlisted force. It may be a notification of a family member's death, attending a funeral, counseling due to marital issues, financial problems, or an Airman thinking about suicide.

As a first sergeant, I have deployed to numerous locations and have been proud to serve the men and women who serve in uniform. Being separated from your family is no easy task, especially when things go wrong. From marital issues, to suicidal thoughts, and even a parent losing their child while deployed, I've seen the many struggles our brothers and sisters face. During an Airman's time of need, a first sergeant is there to step up and coordinate the behind-the-scenes activities that will ensure an Airman is properly helped, cared for, and guided.

Additionally, a first sergeant must be consistently mentoring young Airmen and providing positive feedback and recognition. It takes a first sergeant with exceptional qualities and total commitment to ensure the best for our Airmen.

Being a first sergeant is not for everyone. It takes special individuals that are selfless, with humility with regards others. As a leader, a first sergeant needs to be a servant rather than a master. Most importantly, the first sergeant must be a passionate person that believes in what he or she is doing. They must be willing to dedicate a tremendous amount of time to their Airmen.

Even though the first sergeant reports to the commander, the commander will not be looking over their shoulder to make sure everything is accomplished. This requires integrity and a lot of self-discipline without expecting to be rewarded. Yes, the demands of this job are tremendous, however, the benefits and personal satisfaction clearly outweigh the negative aspects.

So, why would anyone want to be a first sergeant? The answer is quite simple. If you want to invest in the success and development of the enlisted force, watching them transition into our future leaders, then this job is for you. The key reason I'm driven to undertake this task is that there's no greater satisfaction than knowing you made an impact on an Airman's career, personal development, and welfare of their family.

The Enlisted Force Structure (AFI 36-2618) mandates senior NCOs must provide highly effective leadership. Be an active, visible leader. Deliberately develop junior enlisted Airmen, NCOs, and fellow senior NCOs into better followers, leaders, and supervisors. Promote responsible behaviors within all Airmen. Readily detect and correct unsafe and/or irresponsible behaviors that negatively impact unit or individual readiness.

This is what makes Airmen and senior NCOs, and we must be practicing this mandate all the time, regardless of titles. I challenge you all to act as first sergeants, not as a matter of choice, but rather as a sense of duty.