New stripes mean new responsibilities for Airmen Published June 15, 2007 By Chief Master Sgt. Russell Kuck 62nd Airlift Wing command chief master sergeant MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Promotions to technical sergeant and master sergeant were released this week and many of our Airmen received good news. Although it's always exciting to be considered for that next stripe, it's important to remember that promotions represent something more than just a raise. The promotion to E-6 signifies a higher level of being a noncommissioned officer. You are often considered your organization's technical experts, in addition to providing sound supervision and training. You are responsible for developing all assigned enlisted personnel and must obtain maximum performance from each subordinate. The promotion to E-7 signifies your move into the senior noncommissioned officer tier. With this designation comes new, significant responsibilities -- some of which you may have not given much thought to, but definitely need to be prepared for. The day you walk into your workcenter wearing that extra stripe, you'll be viewed as an SNCO. From that moment on, you will be seen as an active and visible leader. You are transitioning from being technical experts and first line supervisors to operational leaders! You will be required to translate your leaders' directions into specific tasks and responsibilities so your team can understand and execute. You are required to develop not only the enlisted support but also develop our company grade officers. You are expected to continue your professional development by completing your Community College of the Air Force and SNCO Professional Military Education distance learning course. Congratulations to you and your families for achieving this landmark promotion. Hooah!