LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Every Service member can think back through their career, no matter how long, and name at least one person who impacted and shaped them to be the person they are today.
Those who knew Chief Master Sgt. Denise Mikolajczyk, thought of her as a role-model. She is fondly remembered as a leader, model Airman and the epitome of what a chief should be.
In January 2009, Mikolajczyk died as a result of a benign tumor that blocked her mitral valve. Mikolajczyk was stationed at Langley Air Force Base, Va., where she served as the Air Combat Command's Directorate of Manpower, Personnel and Services' Manpower functional manager.
"I was hurt when I got the phone call," said Chief Master Sgt. Walt Bonner, Air Combat Command base operating support manpower requirements section Chief, full of emotion. "I just couldn't believe it."
Bonner thinks of Mikolajczyk as an important influence on his career - and life.
"She had high expectations, but she led by example," said Bonner. "I wouldn't be the chief I am today if it wasn't for her."
According to Bonner, Mikolajczyk loved interacting with Airmen, and would often take time from her schedule to speak to young Airmen during their briefings at the First Term Airmen Center.
"She truly cared about Airmen," said Bonner. "I try to provide the same leadership for my Airmen every day."
Although Bonner said he wouldn't be the same person without Mikolajczyk's guidance, she was more than a mentor to his career. Mikolajczyk was a close friend to Bonner and his family, and is considered by he and his wife, Linda Bonner, to have been instrumental in their relationship.
Mikolajczyk helped keep Linda and Bonner in contact and remained supportive of the couple while Bonner was deployed during the early stages of their relationship.
"You don't want to lose her," Mikolajezyk said to Bonner many years ago. "She's the one."
When Bonner and Linda were married Mikolajczyk was there to show her continued support for her friends.
"She was our best man," said Linda, with a laugh.
The couple remained close to Mikolajczyk, and their two families would often spend time together. After a time, however, military life forced them move apart.
After her death, the Langley Chief's Group renamed their annual golf outing in her honor. The tournament now serves as an annual memorialization to pass the on the legacy of Mikolajczyk.
This year's tournament marks the third annual outing, and is scheduled to be held Oct. 5, at the Eaglewood golf course, at Langley Air Force Base, Va.
All proceeds gained from the outing are donated to enlisted programs throughout Langley, including Airman Leadership School, the base honor guard and others. Those who knew Mikolajczyk can attest to her good will and giving nature, as these traits are carried on through the tournament.
"In life she was very giving, and she helped everyone," said Bonner. "This outing is a great representation of her personality."