Recruiters, enlistees highlighted at A/TA Convention

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Terry Fike
  • 330th Recruiting Squadron
INDIANAPOLIS (AFPN) --  Pledging one’s devotion to their country and reciting the Oath of Enlistment can be inspirational to most. 

This first step to becoming a member of the nation’s military is special in itself, but 10 enlistees from the 330th Recruiting Squadron had this moment made even more memorable during this year’s Airlift/Tanker Association Convention and Symposium Oct. 28 in Nashville, Tenn. 

Walking across the stage, the enlistees were greeted by almost 4,000 Air Force members, A/TA attendees and the Air Force’s top military leaders. To the left of the enlistees stood Gen. T. Michael Moseley, Air Force Chief of Staff, and to their right, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Gerald R. Murray. 

Chief Murray opened the enlistment ceremony by introducing the recruiting staff and enlistees. He then spoke briefly on the importance of recruiting, how well recruiters have been handling this awesome task and how these future Airmen are exceptional for taking this challenge during a time of war. 

Lifting their right hands, the recruits repeated after General Moseley as he gave them their Oath of Enlistment. 

With a standing ovation and cameras flashing, some of the recruits admitted that they were a little uneasy with all the attention. 

“I was a little nervous to meet the chief of staff and chief master sergeant of the Air Force,” said Scott Stevens, an enlistee from Hopkinsville, Ky. “It was such a huge honor to meet them.” 

For the recruiters, meeting their leaders was also an extraordinary experience. 

“It was humbling -- definitely the highlight of my career,” said Tech. Sgt. Robert Veuleman, 330th Standardization and Training NCO and enlisted accessions flight chief. “I don’t believe the recruits got the gravity, what they were apart of, until they were on the stage.” 

When the ceremony finished, the enlistees shook hands and spoke with both the leaders. The staff then got an even bigger treat -- coins from both leaders. 

“The enthusiasm of the crowd was something inspirational. It makes the daily grind easier,” said Lt. Col. “Jock” Dodson, 330th Recruiting Squadron commander. “It’s a rare opportunity for a recruiting squadron to be recognized by such distinguished company.”