22nd Air Force Command Chief visits YARS, motivates Airmen

Published Nov. 8, 2013
By Staff Sergeant Megan Tomkins
910AW/PA

YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Amidst the ongoing uncertainties of government funding and Unit Training Assembly reschedules, 22nd Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Steven Larwood visited Youngstown Air Reserve Station (YARS) for the fourth time to provide encouragement and oversight to Reservists Nov. 2, 2013.

While at YARS, Larwood visited several squadrons to speak directly to Airmen, which provided them information about current conditions of military operations as well as explaining the importance of continuing to press forward in professional and personal goals.

"The real world is full of tumultuous times and filled with uncertainty," said Larwood. "Things are fluid and constantly changing - both financially and with the force structure - but we will ensure that no information is held behind the scenes so you are able to make informed decisions about your careers."

Larwood encouraged Airmen to continue to pursue advancement in their careers even with the current status of government funding and explained the importance of continuing to train.

"The fact is you won't be promoted on mystery, you'll be promoted on history," Larwood said. "Have everything in order so when the time comes for you to promote, you're ready. Find someone to help you improve your skill set in order to advance and never say no to an opportunity."

Larwood expressed the need for technical and staff sergeants to properly train the incoming Airmen on not only the tools to be successful in their specific career field, but also the Air Force lifestyle.

"The Reserve is set up on paving your own way in your career," said Larwood. "Help them prepare for the future and the job they are here to do."

910th Airlift Wing Command Chief Troy Rhoades expressed his thankfulness for Larwood's continuing visits to YARS.

"Whenever he is here, he addresses base issues, brings information from the top and gives beneficial insight to command chiefs Reserve-wide," said Rhoades. "He tells us what has worked best for other bases that we can use in our programs here. We are always glad to have him visit and look forward to having him back again soon."