Sheppard inducts newest NCOs Published Sept. 2, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Matthew Varga 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Sheppard inducted 55 senior airmen to the noncommissioned officer ranks in a ceremony Aug. 28 at the base theater. Senior Airman Rodrigo Trevino, 82nd Civil Engineering Squadron, said he is ready to answer the call. "It's a challenge getting the promotion but it is also very exciting. It is a great honor and privilege," he said. "It is not just another stripe but a new chapter of my career and a new opportunity." Along with another stripe comes more responsibilities, Airman Trevino said. "The Air Force has said you're ready, your bosses have said you're ready, you've got the ball, now run with it," Brig. Gen. O.G. Mannon said. "Congratulations, we're awfully proud of all of you. Thank you for being a part of our Air Force," Col. George Menker, 80th Flying Training Wing vice commander, said the newly-promoted staff sergeants would now be part of the solution, they would be instrumental in completing the mission and help guide the junior enlisted ranks to someday replace them as they replaced their NCOs. "You are now entering the leadership corps of the Air Force," said Colonel Menker. It was not an easy road to becoming an NCO, and the goal they set out to achieve did not go unnoticed, Colonel Menker said. Tech. Sgt. Scott Turner, 982nd Training Group instructor, offered words of advice and encouragement, but also a reminder of the new responsibilities expected of NCOs. "You must be a leader and should actively be motivating others and put your duties above yourself," he said. "Learn all you can from those more knowledgeable, but ensure you pass that knowledge down." Airman Trevino said the best thing a junior enlisted Airman can do to advance and be recognized is show initiative, know their job, practice excellence in all they do and most of all, never forget the family, friends and supervisors who help them along the way.