Promtion ceremonies now honor lower tier Airmen

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Emerald Ralston
  • 341st Space Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  A change to the way promotions are conducted at Malmstrom was implemented at the January promotion ceremony at the Grizzly Bend Club Dec. 27. 

Instead of highlighting only NCOs at the ceremonies, all grades -- from airman to chief master sergeant -- will now be recognized. 

"The ceremony we had in the past had been more focused on the NCO grades," said Chief Master Sgt. Steve Sargent, 341st Space Wing command chief. "The only airman category was the below-the-zone promotions to senior airman. I felt this should be an enlisted recognition from airman on up." 

Chief Sargent said he has gotten positive feedback so far. 

"When I announced this change at an Airman's Council meeting, one of the individuals was very happy about it," Chief Sargent said. "Most people didn't even notice the first two stripes she put on. Her parents were more excited than her military family - it shouldn't be that way." 

This change to the ceremony includes many more of Team Malmstrom's enlisted members. 

"The number of promotees has more than doubled," said Master Sgt. Kenneth McKinney, 341st Missile Maintenance Squadron missile maintenance team non-commissioned officer in charge and organizer of the promotion ceremony. "We had 17 promotions at the ceremony last month and will have 40 this time." 

The ceremony Dec. 27 included airmen first class on up, although whenever there is a promotion to Airmen from now on, they will also be included. 

"It is important that we recognize all of our promotees, not just a select few," Chief Sargent said. 

This new way of doing things is subject to change and is open to suggestions. 

"This is a ceremony idea that is in progress," Chief Sargent said. "We're always looking for recommendations."