LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Only one percent of all enlisted Airmen hold the rank of Chief master sergeant, but this promotion does not stem from time in service and large ribbon racks.
Becoming a chief requires more than the dedication to the country, it requires dedication to the ideas, beliefs and goals of the U.S. Air Force family.
At Langley Air Force Base, the Chiefs Group seeks to improve morale among Airmen and promote the general welfare of the enlisted corps. This group of nearly 150 chiefs is always on guard and ready to assist with matters relating to enlisted Airmen.
"The LCG strives to improve esprit de corps, community relations, camaraderie and unity of purpose," said Chief Master Sgt. Tony Levine, the LCG president. "Further, they help to promote professionalism among the enlisted corps by setting the example according to standards, traditions and customs of the Air Force."
One way the group plans to accomplish this is to implement a mentorship program for company grade officers, including a "Chief Shadow Day," where new officers accompany seasoned chiefs in the workplace to gain better insight of their new assignment.
Additionally, the LCG is building a "Night Hawk" program, where they plan to visit Airmen working swing shifts. These initiatives are designed to increase face time with Airmen across the installation, bridging the gap between junior enlisted personnel and their leadership.
"Our theme for the calendar year of 2013 is 'Visibly Bold Leadership.' This idea of leadership is what will drive everything the LCG does in the new year," said Levine. "We want to expand on being active and visible to the Airmen on Langley."
Even with all these programs in place, the LCG's efforts do not end at the gate. The organization is planning more visits to local veterans hospitals, and more community involvement for family members of Langley's enlisted service members.
For more information about membership in the LCG, contact Levine at
tony.levine@langley.af.mil