Clinic NCO named NCOA distinguished graduate

  • Published
  • By Joe B. Wiles
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Maybe it was his four-years instructing at the Airman Leadership School. Or it could be his single-minded dedication to the Air Force, which incidentally, resulted in selection for master sergeant at the 12-year point in his career.

But most likely, Tech. Sgt. James Smith, NCO in charge of Flight Medicine with the 71st Medical Group here, was named a distinguished graduate of the Robert D. Gaylor NCO Academy at Lackland AFB, Texas, because he did what needed to be done. "Lots and lots of study time," he said. 

Sergeant Smith was one of 206 in his academy class. Also attending the academy class from Vance were: Tech. Sgt. Antonio Smith with the 71st Flying Training Wing command post, Tech Sgt. Christopher Phillips with the 71st Medical Operations Squadron and Tech. Sgt. Bobbie White with the 71st Force Support Squadron. 

In addition to finding out he was selected for promotion to master sergeant, the highlight of his time at the NCO Academy was meeting people from different career fields. "I enjoyed talking with them, finding out how they do things. It really opens your eyes to how much more the Air Force is than just your job," said Sergeant Smith. 

"The academy really broadens your leadership and management abilities," he said. "It gives a good foundation for moving into the senior NCO ranks." 

Attending the academy at Lackland AFB was like coming home. "I spent 10 years in San Antonio before coming to Vance," he said. The first six years were as a medic at Wilford Hall Medical Center at Lackland AFB. "Then I was an Airman Leadership School instructor for four years." 

His goals include becoming a commandant at a leadership school, and one day teaching at the high school level. "Becoming part of a junior ROTC program would be ideal," Sergeant Smith said.