What do you say after 33 years

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Denise Willhite
  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  During his retirement ceremony on April 3 at Luke AFB, 944th Fighter Wing command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Pablo Valverde Jr. said, "What do I say after 33 years of service?"
Those that he served said it for him.

Former 944th Mission Support Group commander, Colonel Linda McCourt stated, "Whether in the MOF (Maintenance Operations Flight), on the flightline, backshop, supply, logistics or as a command chief, home and deployed to Iraq, you have taken care of your airmen from basic training to command chief providing unyielding dedication and leadership. From Gunsmoke till today, the day of your retirement, I am honored to have worked with you and to know you."

Presiding officer and former 944th Fighter Wing commander, Colonel Michael Popovich stated that he was impressed by Command Chief Valverde's dedication to duty, his professionalism, his example of excellence, and most importantly his ability to mentor and help his airmen.

"Having worked with Command Chief Valverde for over two years, I can personally say that not only is he an outstanding command chief but he is the 'best of the best'. No one cares more and no one represents the 944th Fighter Wing enlisted force better than Command Chief Valverde," said Colonel Popovich.

Over 200 wing members and guests agreed, applauding numerous times as his career highlights were discussed. It was very evident that Chief Valverde did indeed lead by example and has always preached that sentiment. According to Chief Valverde, "The foundation to a good organization is building relationships and a culture of leadership."

Arguably his most noteworthy tribute to his character and leadership was his last deployment to Baghdad, Sather Air Base. "I volunteered to deploy because I wanted to be with our Airmen and it was a challenge on my character and my leadership," stated Chief Valverde.

In his remarks, Colonel Popovich recounted how Chief Valverde, as a child, grew up with a unique challenge - a gang infested neighborhood. Even though the badge of honor in his neighborhood was prison time and a gang jacket, chief chose to join the military instead.

As it turns out, his career turns out to be a legacy to what was most important to him and was stated by him during his final address to the wing. "I encourage you to always go the extra mile, lead by example and practice what you preach."