The 131st Bomb Wing conducted its inaugural senior noncommissioned officer (SNCO) induction ceremony at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Station in St. Louis on May 4, 2024. This event marked the first time such a ceremony was held in the wing’s history.
The ceremony recognized over 40 Airmen stationed at Jefferson Barracks ANGS for their achievement of entering the SNCO ranks. Participants included those holding ranks from master sergeant to chief master sergeant.
Wing leaders addressed the newly inducted members, emphasizing the importance of their roles as SNCOs. Chief Master Sgt. Jason Henke, command chief master sergeant for the 131st Bomb Wing, remarked, “When we formally recognize our people and induct them into this higher level of responsibility, we are saying, ‘You are now charged with going forward and possibly fighting a winning war on behalf of your nation.’”
The MO-851st Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps honor guard formed a saber arch for each honoree’s entrance. Honorees were then presented with medallions symbolizing their inclusion in a tradition of excellence.
Col. Jared Kennish, commander of the 131st Bomb Wing, stated, “The 131st has a great history of having some of the best senior NCOs. The wing relies on that leadership and mentoring our SNCOs provide.”
For two Airmen from the 131st, sisters Master Sgt. Lauren Slough and Senior Master Sgt. Elise Rich, the ceremony held special significance as they shared their induction experience together.
“I definitely felt like it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Slough, who serves as a training manager with the 157th Air Operations Squadron. “It made the ceremony even more special to be inducted at the same time as my sister.”
Previously celebrated at Whiteman Air Force Base, this was potentially just one of many future ceremonies to be held at Jefferson Barracks ANGS.
“This is the first of many opportunities we will take to recognize our amazing Airmen and their career accomplishments,” Henke added.
Kennish noted that this ceremony is an important step toward fostering better connections among Airmen and provides a solid foundation for future initiatives within the Wing.
