First Sergeant Symposium equips future senior NCOs, CGOs around New England

  • Published
  • By Mark Herlihy
  • 66th Air Base Group

The Warhawk First Sergeant Council hosted a fall First Sergeant Symposium here Oct. 25 through 28.

The weeklong event provided senior noncommissioned officers and company grade officers from around New England with tools and knowledge to navigate difficult and unique situations.

“Attendees got to network with the first sergeants and others and prepare for the role of first sergeant by learning more about the responsibilities,” said Master Sgt. Andrea Nehmer, the symposium organizer.

The course covered a range of topics, including presentations from Equal Opportunity, Inspector General, Military and Family Readiness Center, chaplain, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, 66th Security Forces Squadron Investigations, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

First sergeant symposiums provide attendees with a broader perspective on first sergeant duties behind the scenes and prepare them to step in if the diamond-wearing first sergeant is on leave or unavailable.

“Attendees had the privilege to hear from other additional duty first sergeants, squadron senior enlisted leaders, and squadron commanders about the importance of the first sergeant and building the triad relationship,” said Nehmer. “These panels are very insightful and bring different perspectives to the table.”.

Symposium participants had opportunities to meet with the installation commander and command chief at the beginning and end of the symposium, allowing leadership to answer questions and share their advice.

The event included participation from Air Force Life Cycle Management Center mission partners, as well as members from three geographically separated units: Ft. Drum in New York, Pease Air National Guard in New Hampshire, and the 313th Recruiting Squadron in New York.

The next symposium is scheduled for early 2025, with specific dates and times forthcoming.

For more information, contact Nehmer by email at andrea.g.nehmer.mil@health.mil.