Pacific Air Forces Command Chief Master Sergeant Rod J. McKinley, appointed the 15th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force

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  • Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii --  Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley named Chief Master Sgt. Rodney J. McKinley to serve as the 15th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force today.

Chief McKinley will assume his new position on July 1, following the June 30 retirement of current Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald R. Murray. CMSAF Murray’s retirement culminates 29 years of service to the Air Force.

"I'm excited to have Chief McKinley take the helm of our enlisted force," said General Moseley. "Chief McKinley is a tremendous leader with an impressive array of expeditionary and combat experiences to help him steer our Airmen and serve as my partner. We were blessed to have a number of exceptionally well-qualified candidates for the position. While the decision was not an easy one, I feel we have the right person to lead our enlisted force during this time of a long war on terrorism, recapitalization and transformation. I look forward to working with him.”

General Paul V. Hester, Commander of Pacific Air Forces echoed the sentiments of General Moseley in congratulating Chief McKinley, “On behalf of PACAF, I extend my congratulations to Chief McKinley and to his family and my sincere appreciation for his commitment and dedication to our Airmen in the Pacific. I am confident that he will fulfill the charter of his new appointment with resounding success.”

Chief McKinley is currently the command chief master sergeant for Pacific Air Forces. He originally joined the Air Force in 1974, took a break in service in 1977, attended college, and reentered the Air Force in 1982. Chief McKinley’s career includes various assignments in medical, aircraft maintenance, first sergeant, and as the command chief master sergeant at the 86th Airlift Wing, Ramstein AB, Germany; 1st Fighter Wing, Langley Air Force Base, Virginia; the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, Al Udeid, Qatar and 11th Air Force, Elmendorf Air Force Base, AK.

Chief McKinley’s overall impression of his new assignment is one of great humility and respect. “Many talented and qualified Chiefs were considered for this position and I have the greatest respect for my peers; to be chosen among them is very humbling.” said Chief McKinley.

“This is an important time in United States history and the United States Air Force, I don’t take this job lightly and promise to do the best I can on behalf of all Airmen.” the Chief said.

The office of the Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force represents the highest enlisted level of leadership and provides direction for the total force representing more than 680,000 officers, enlisted, civilian, guard and reserve Airmen. He has direct influence on the enlisted corps and presents their interests to the American public and all levels of government.

The CMSAF serves as a personal advisor to the Air Force Chief of Staff and Secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale, proper utilization, and progress of the Air Force and their families.

For more information, please contact PACAF Public Affairs at 808-449-7947 or e-mail pacaf.paops@hickam.af.mil.
(Courtesy of Pacific Air Forces)