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AFCENT Command Chief says farewell

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Desiree Moye
  • 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Command Chief Master Sgt. Shelina Frey, U. S. Air Forces Central Command's senior enlisted leader, held her farewell tour at the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing April 4-6.
 
Frey held Airmen's calls, toured multiple facilities, and spent time engaging with Airmen across the wing during her final visit in the AFCENT area of responsibility.

Having worked her way up the ranks and coming face to face with adversity along the way, Frey reiterated the importance of core values and ownership of one's career. Starting out in the Louisiana Air National Guard, she never envisioned the career she would embark upon and the legacy she would leave here for the Airmen assigned to the AFCENT AOR.

"You being in the Air Force is not the best thing that's ever happened to you, but you are the best thing that's ever happened to the Air Force," said Frey. "We all bring something unique to it. If you don't bring your beliefs and values into this Air Force business then it is just a job for you."

During the Airman's call, she personally thanked the Airmen for the sacrifices they make every day. Frey also addressed the importance of the mission here at 'The Rock,' and the significant role Airmen assigned here play in not only building partnerships with the host nation, but also keeping everyone safe and out of harm's way.

Frey also emphasized the importance of communication in regards to force management issues, performance evaluations, and guiding your career to the next level both inside and outside of the Air Force.

"Communication is simple, I believe in looking people in the face and telling them the truth and not allowing people to wallow in their pity; the Air Force is not forever," said Frey. "But you are [forever] in terms of living your life. When Airmen have that mindset, it helps people make good life decisions and acquire the right information."

Frey has spent the last year working alongside and molding the Airmen in AFCENT by communicating her leadership style and also the priorities of the AFCENT commander, Lt. Gen. John Hesterman. A large priority for both Frey and Hesterman has been to "protect and take care of each other," and recognize outstanding Airmen along the way.

Frey took time out during her farewell tour to identify those Airmen of the 386th AEW who exemplify professionalism and core values by presenting coins to outstanding performers.

"Years from now, when I'm retired, I'll sit back and watch The Pentagon channel or CNN, and see how far we've come, and I'll say 'I was a part of that,'" said the chief. "The fruits of our labor were not in vain."

Frey has been chosen to assume authority over 45,000 total force enlisted Airmen within the Pacific Air Forces as the Command Chief Master Sgt. of the 7th Air Force. There she will provide direction to the enlisted corps and represent their interests, a job she is undoubtedly prepared for after her tenure as AFCENT's command chief.

"I'll leave AFCENT in good hands. I will arrive at PACAF excited to develop a 'fight to night' mentally in those Airmen," said Frey. "It's so bitter sweet but the good news is, I'm an Airman in the United States Air Force."