KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Col. Justin D. Secrest, 377th Air Base Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Andrew Rapsavage, 377 ABW command chief, met with recent “Tiger of the Week” recipients to learn more about the “Fighting Tigers” behind the mission.
The Tiger of the Week program reflects Secrest’s focus on people, precision, and progress, recognizing Airmen who contribute to the wing’s mission while highlighting the individuals behind the work. Each week, the recognition rotates among groups across the wing, giving Airmen from different organizations an opportunity to be recognized, including members of the 377th Test and Evaluation Group at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
During the conversations, Secrest and Rapsavage spoke with each Airman about their personal experiences, reaching command level leadership roles and goals for the future. They discussed what led each Airman to enlist in the Air Force and where they hope their careers and lives will take them. The Airmen also had the opportunity to ask questions directly to the wing’s senior leaders, creating an open dialogue about their experiences, challenges and aspirations.
For Staff Sgt. Sydni Jenkins from the 377th Weapons Security System Squadron, one of the Tiger of the Week recipients, the conversation provided an opportunity to connect with the wing’s senior leaders in a relaxed and open environment.
“I honestly really liked the event,” said Jenkins. “Col. Secrest and Chief Rapsavage are always easy to talk to and to be around because they were genuinely interested in getting to know us. They were open to conversing about anything. I think they made everyone feel special for receiving Tiger of the Week.”
Throughout the conversations, Secrest and Rapsavage remained engaged and eager to hear each Airman’s perspective, asking questions and encouraging them to speak openly about their experiences. For the leaders, the conversations were more than an opportunity to discuss the mission; they were a chance to connect with the people who carry it forward every day.
“Our Airmen are more than their job titles. Understanding their experiences, goals and questions helps us lead them better and build a stronger team.” Said Secrest. “Leadership starts with listening. When we take the time to hear from our Airmen, we gain a better understanding of what they need and how we can help them succeed.”
For the Tigers of the Week, the conversations offered an opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives while gaining insight from the leaders responsible for helping shape the future of the wing.
Senior Airman Gage Coder from the 377th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Cargo Movement Section said the discussion also gave him a broader perspective on the people and missions that make up Kirtland AFB.
“I was happy to attend the conference,” said Coder. “It was good learning about other people’s jobs and perspectives within the military, as well as at Kirtland AFB. I also felt like I walked away learning something when I asked a question.”
As these Tiger of the Week recipients continue their own paths through the Air Force, their stories serve as a reminder that every Airman brings a different background, perspective and set of aspirations to the mission.