Col. Eric A. Kivi, 58th Special Operations Wing commander, right, STEP promotes Tech. Sgt. Micheal A. Boyels to master sergeant Dec. 10. The colonel is assisted by Chef Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley was making a familiarization tour of New Mexico bases. The newly promoted master sergeant is an HC/MC-130P instructor loadmaster assigned to the 550th Special Operations Squadron. The Stripes to Exceptional Performers means an immediate promotion to the next grade for enlisted Airmen. U.S. Air Force Photo by Todd Berenger