Former DM-50 President honored by D-M Chiefs Group

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Vincent Howard
  • 355th Fighter Wing Command Chief Master Sgt.
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The D-M Chiefs Group recently awarded its highest honor to a local civic leader when the group conferred upon Glen Kerslake, former DM-50 President, the title of Honorary Chief Master Sergeant.

Since its inception, the DM-50 has been instrumental in providing nearly $1 million in funding for dozens of initiatives that improve the quality of life for D-M Airmen.

Mr. Kerslake has been personally involved with DM-50 initiatives for more than 10 years as a member, vice-president, and ultimately, president of the organization. His contributions show a sense of commitment to the welfare of D-M's Airmen.

He served as the DM-50 picnic organizer for the past seven years and led the DM-50-sponsored University of Arizona tailgate for the past four years. Under his leadership, the DM-50 also provided hundreds of free child car safety seats to young Airmen with families.

Mr. Kerslake is the principal author for the DM-50's Community Alliance paper which outlines a tactical view of the collaboration between the Tucson Community and details plans to ensure continued future success. His leadership and influence have positively impacted the morale and welfare of more than 10,000 Airmen and their families.

Mr. Kerslake is also one of the primary representatives for the DM-50 to the Military-Community Relations Committee. His involvement in this committee has been essential to balancing the community view of D-M operations and the messages this committee sends to city, county and state leaders.

He has been directly involved in communicating community support to Air Force and Congressional leaders. Not only did Mr. Kerslake provide a strong voice in support of D-M, but he kept D-M leadership aware of key issues within the local community, maximizing opportunities to act quickly to enhance community relations and support.

Mr. Kerslake's personal involvement and commitment serves the greater good of D-M by keeping Air Force interests out in front of the civilian leaders at all levels. His personal involvement in fundraising and direct support for the events, programs and activities that support D-M Airmen and military families has a strategic effect on Airman morale and welfare that will outlast the events themselves.

Finally, Mr. Kerslake has continually impressed the D-M Chiefs Group through display of the personal qualities of strong character, unflappable integrity, impactful leadership and selfless service - exactly the qualities expected of a U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant.
Mr. Kerslake is the first civilian ever to have earned this level of recognition from D-M's Chiefs Group. Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Lopez, Chiefs Group vice president, was a proud supporter of the award, proclaiming, "Glen's embodiment of 'service before self' will continue to benefit our Airmen for years to come. That high standard of service which results in wide ranging impact to Airmen matches that of a Chief."

Chief Master Sgt. Jeff Brown, Chiefs Group president, concurred and added, "Mr. Kerslake epitomizes the wingman concept. Every Airman looking to be a great wingman for their fellow Airmen and community partners couldn't find a better role model. He is a great 'Chief' and is well-deserving of this honor".

A plaque with Mr. Kerslake's name will be maintained on D-M and now becomes a permanent part of D-M's proud enlisted heritage.