1st Sergeant Spotlight: Security Forces Squadron welcomes new first sergeant

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jessica Green
  • 129th Rescue Wing Public Affairs
MOFFETT FEDERAL AIRFIELD, Calif. --  A fuels craftsman with the 129th Logistics Readiness Squadron here has joined the 129th Security Forces Squadron as their first sergeant April 2009.

Master Sgt. Sean McCambridge, the new 129th Security Forces Squadron first sergeant, was promoted and assigned to carry on the responsibility, accountability, and discipline of a first sergeant.

First Sergeant is not a rank, but a special duty held by a senior enlisted member who reports directly to the unit commander and is responsible for the morale, welfare, and conduct of all the enlisted members in their squadron.

"I have served my full 20 years and decided I wanted to be able to stay in [the military] a little bit longer and give something back," said Sergeant McCambridge.

Sergeant McCambridge originally joined the Air Force with hopes of travel and adventure. Being a native Californian he didn't get much travel from being stationed at nearby Travis Air Force, Calif. and Nellis AFB, Nev. However, Sergeant McCambridge got his fill of adventure while deployed to Saudi Arabia during the first gulf war, he said.

After five years of active duty, Sergeant McCambridge joined the 129th Rescue Wing as a fuels specialist, then began working in computer operations.

"Being in the 129th Logistics Readiness Squadron I was told that becoming a first sergeant would most likely result in being moved to a different squadron," said Sergeant McCambridge. "I was introduced to the SFS as an augmentee. That's when I got to know the people and really liked the squadron."

When he got word that the SFS later had an opening for a first sergeant, Sergeant McCambridge took advantage and applied.

"I'm pretty outgoing, I like to try different things, so being in a leadership role isn't intimidating to me," he said. "Dealing with commanders and chiefs, and seeing what they want to present to our people has allowed me to see how to be a better leader."

Having once been offered a first sergeant position in the past, Sergeant McCambridge had to pass up the opportunity because his professional military education was not completed. He now hopes to share his experience with other, stressing the importance of education.

"Make sure your PME is up to date and ready," he said. "That is advice I would give to anyone, not just those interested in becoming first sergeants."

After returning from First Sergeant Academy at Maxwell-Gunter AFB, Ala. last April, Master Sgt. McCambridge still feels like he is learning his position here, but has a lot of enthusiasm about his job.

"My leadership philosophy has always been lead by example. I want the squadron to see that there are opportunities outside the career field," he said. "I'm hoping with my 20 years of knowledge and experience I can be their go-to person for any questions they might have."