Kirtland Air Force Base, NM -- On May 10, 32 Dedicated and Assistant Dedicated Crew Chiefs were recognized in a ceremony at the 58th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

"The term DCC implies ownership and control over property - in this case assigned Air Force aircraft," said Chief Master Sgt. Thomas E. Hennessy, 58th AMXS Superintendent.
"Becoming a DCC does not come automatically. It can't be purchased, stolen or found; it is for those who demonstrate excellence daily."
Each DCC and A-DCC has their name printed on their respective aircraft to signify their ownership of that specific aircraft.

"In essence, the plane belongs to the DCC." said Chief Master Sgt. Paul V. Cupach, 550th Aircraft Maintenance Unit superintendent. "How the aircraft looks and performs is a direct reflection of the DCC's maintenance, management and leadership abilities. "

Not only does the DCC have ownership of that aircraft; they take personal responsibility as well.
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With very complex aircraft taking off and landing daily in support of our flying-hour program, the selection of DCCs is vitally important," said Chief Master Sgt. William R. Thompson, 71st AMU superintendent. "Only the most qualified individuals with mechanical knowledge and proficiency, personal integrity, and motivation are chosen."
With the extensive responsibilities and criteria to become a DCC, it is clear why the DCC is a highly regarded position.

"The assignment to DCC is a higher degree of responsibility reserved for those who display the leadership and management skills necessary to maintain an aircraft for combat readiness," said Senior Master Sgt. Samuel E. Hollivay, 58th AMXS supervisor.

During the ceremony, Col. Joseph E. Hastings, 58th Special Operations Wing vice commander, echoed the importance of empowering our Airmen. He stated that, "Recognizing our DCC's will instill a sense of ownership and pride and ultimately project the 58th SOW as the best unit in the Air Force."

In order to be chosen, a maintainer must have at least a minimum of six months experience working on their specific aircraft as well as be a staff sergeant or above. Assistant crew chiefs are often assigned to specific aircraft as well, so the DCCs may "bring up" the next generation.

The following individuals were recognized as Dedicated and Assistant Dedicated Crew Chiefs:

71st Aircraft Maintenance Unit
· Staff Sgt. Thomas Rachiele
· Staff Sgt. Kevin Roark
· Tech. Sgt. David Stephens
· Staff Sgt. Gary Burchell
· Staff Sgt. Richard Embrey
· Senior Airman Kyle Doubek
· Staff Sgt. Anthony Whitman
· Staff Sgt. Gerald Heckwine
· Senior Airman Michael Rutland

550th Aircraft Maintenance Unit
· Staff Sgt. Joshua Minoda
· Staff Sgt. Trevor Adams
· Staff Sgt. Jason Brede
· Staff Sgt. Charles Comeskilling
· Staff Sgt. Ryan Archbold
· Staff Sgt. Eric Bustamante
· Staff Sgt. Shaun Wise
· Staff Sgt. Daniel McIntyre
· Staff Sgt. Joshua Woslager
· Staff Sgt. Christopher Zuest
· Staff Sgt. Sesar Gonzalez
· Staff Sgt. Michale Gardner
· Staff Sgt. Brandon Derry
· Staff Sgt. Marcus Fautheree
· Senior Airman Mark Sarnecki
· Senior Airman Charles Fleenor
· Senior Airman Timothy Dawdy
· Senior Airman Vincent Melendez
· Senior Airman Alan Jones
· Senior Airman Sarah Baumbush
· Senior Airman Scott Brown
· Senior Airman Yancy Swift
· Airman 1st Class Jesse Colmey