Leadership surprise Airman, family with promotion Published Jan. 20, 2012 Nellis Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- A group of 57th Wing leadership personnel traveled Dec. 12, 2011, to Fort Irwin, Calif., to surprise Staff Sgt. Christopher Rodriguez ,12th Combat Training Squadron terminal attack controller instructor, with a promotion to technical sergeant under the Stripes for Exceptional Performers Program. The group included: Brig. Gen. Terrence O'Shaughnessy, 57th Wing commander, Col. Stephen Waller, 57th Wing Operations Group commander, Chief Master Sgt. Michael Klintworth, 57th Wing command chief, and Chief Master Sgt. Wesley Mathias, 57th Wing Operations Group superintendent. Rodriguez's wife, Crystal, and his son, Aiden, were also present when Rodriguez received his promotion. The STEP program is designed to enable commanders to promote select individuals when unique circumstances call for it. STEP promotions can be given for the following grades: staff sergeant, technical sergeant and master sergeant.
