377th Tiger becomes AFGSC first sergeant of the year Published June 12, 2018 By Staff Sgt. J.D. Strong II 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Former 377th Weapons Security Squadron First Sergeant, Senior Master Sgt. Stephen D. Hansen, won the Air Force Global Strike Command 2017 First Sergeant of the Year Award. The first sergeant, often referred to as the "first shirt," or "shirt," is responsible for the morale, welfare, and conduct of all the enlisted members in a squadron or unit, and is the chief adviser to the squadron commander concerning the enlisted force. “I definitely didn't become a first sergeant for promotions or awards,” Hansen said. “I'm shocked and humbled; I never expected to be selected for something like this.” Hansen, while under the 377th WSSS, led the wing’s largest surety mission. Teaming with the commander, he managed 319 Airmen and completed 232 reliability actions. Hansen also crafted a wing drug deterrence plan, managing four events with more than 84 volunteers. During a base-wide first sergeant shortage, Hansen tutored two undershirts and three developmental special duty selects that supported two units, 12 sections and 1,200 Airmen. “This duty has a lot of ups and downs, and it isn't always fun,” Hansen said. “Those moments I'm able to right a wrong, or help the pieces fall into place for someone going through the hardest time of his or her life, are the most rewarding to me.” Hansen will now compete for 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year and other functional awards.