An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Chief Smith takes up reins as 14th FTW CCC

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jacob Corbin
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  The BLAZE Team's new command chief master sergeant didn't have to go far when he started the journey from his old position to his new one.

Chief Master Sgt. Zefrem Smith, formerly the 14th Operations Group superintendent, assumed the position of command chief master sergeant Jan. 27.

"I really want to articulate the gratitude I have for Colonel Watkins hiring me and entrusting me with the opportunity to lead the men and women of the BLAZE Team," Chief Smith said. The chief said he is dedicated to the BLAZE philosophy of 'Building leaders, advancing integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do.'"

The chief said his journey to become a command chief started more than three years ago when his mentor, Chief Master Sgt. Paul Lewis, and he met to discuss his future.

"Chief Lewis said 'you need to be a command chief' and put me on the path," Chief Smith said. Chief Lewis recognized Chief Smith's passion -- taking care of Airmen -- and helped guide him to his new goal.

"Mentor's are important," Chief Smith said. "They see that something in you and then cultivate it, nurture it and watch it grow."

The Chief said his motto is simple: "execute with excellence everything that we do," and that it's his goal to spread it throughout the wing.

"If we can get our team into that mindset, we'll be able to look back and be proud of what we've accomplished," Chief Smith said. "We want to build on the great foundation Chief Brackett left."

Chief Smith's goals while being the command chief include supporting the bases senior noncomissioned officers, helping foster professional organizations on base and continuing to grow the honor guard.

"Our SNCOs are really the backbone of what we do," Chief Smith said. "I want to make sure they have what they need to help our Airmen."

Chief Smith said professional organizations such as the Airman's Activity Council, BLAZE 5/6 and Top 3 are vital programs for Airmen to be a part of and he expects consistent involvement.

He believes these professional organizations help fill the void created by having a relatively small enlisted force and help foster cohesiveness.

The chief also offered some advice to the Airmen on base.

"Never look at your job as 'just another job,' your job is important," he said. "No matter what you do, each of us makes a difference in our own respective (areas of responsibility)."