Two chiefs in two months for the 99th ABW--first sergeant becomes chief-select Published Jan. 16, 2008 By 2nd Lt. Jennifer Richard Nellis AFB Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The 99th Air Base Wing added a new chief-select to its ranks when the 99th Security Support Squadron first sergeant was selected for chief master sergeant Jan. 10. Senior Master Sgt. Jim Scheppard became the second chief-select in the 99th ABW in two months, following the selection of Senior Master Sgt. Charles Rowland in December 2007. Senior Master Sgt. Scheppard was selected for Chief following 25 years of Air Force service. "I'm quite elated at being picked up," he said. It's also very humbling to be selected to the top 1 percent of the enlisted force, Senior Master Sgt. Scheppard said. "Historically, it is more difficult for a first sergeant to become Chief," Senior Master Sgt. Scheppard said. "I believe the competition is much tougher as a first sergeant because we are selected from some of the best the Air Force has and compete among each other. I'm very proud to have made it as a first sergeant." Being a first sergeant has been Senior Master Sgt. Scheppard's best job ever, he said, and he is excited to continue as Chief. "I hope to be a Chief who will take care of my people to the best of my abilities and will provide combat-trained and ready Airmen who can go out and win our nation's wars," he said. Senior Master Sgt. Scheppard offered advice for young Airmen who aspire to someday be chief master sergeants. "Do your job to the best of your ability. Just drive to be the best person that you can be," he said. "If you don't focus on being promoted but focus on doing your job the best you can, you will be recognized." Senior Master Sgt. Charles Rowland, operations flight superintendent, 99th Civil Engineer Squadron, was selected for chief following 26 years of Air Force service. "It is indescribable to finally reach the pinnacle of a long career," he said.
