Wright Patt celebrates the 50th anniversary of Chief Master Sergeant rank

Published Oct. 22, 2009
By Chandra Lloyd
Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The 50th anniversary of the rank of chief master sergeant is right around the corner and a special ceremony will take place for this historical event.

"The Golden Anniversary of the Rank of Chief Master Sergeant" will be observed Dec. 1, beginning at 6 p.m. at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. This event will honor all current and past chiefs, and is open to all military and civilians, regardless of rank.

Close to 200 guests have already signed up, with many more expected to attend. The guest speaker is former Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor. Chief Gaylor was the nation's fifth CMSAF, holding the highest enlisted position from Aug. 1, 1977 until his retirement on July. 30, 1979.

In addition to Chief Gaylor, other chiefs will be in the audience who first pinned on when the rank was introduced into the Air Force on Dec 1. 1959.

Chief Master Sgt. Michael Ronayne, secretary of the WPAFB Chiefs' Group, said that "this is a once-in-a-lifetime event which will be both memorable and inspiring for all those who attend."

To register for the event and find out up-to-date information, visit http://chiefgoldenanniversary.eventbrite.com, or call CMSgt Paul Simpson at (937) 257-9128. Nov. 10 is the last day to purchase tickets. Military uniform is mess dress/semi-formal and business/formal attire for civilians.