Retired chief receives dedication from Air Force Executive Dining Facility

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Christina M. Brownlow
  • Air Force Public Affairs Agency
Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley is dedicating the Pentagon's Air Force Executive Dining Facility to its recently retired director.

Alfonso Sisneros, who is also a retired chief master sergeant, retired April 30 from civil service.

Sisneros managed the facility for more than 30 years. He was recognized as a mainstay and for his vital role during the remodeling of the facility, according to Shad Glover, the deputy director of the Air Force Executive Dining Facility.

Originally from Maxwell, N.M., Sisneros joined the Air Force in 1959. He was assigned to numerous duty locations around the world, but the Pentagon was his favorite, he said.

"I feel I never left the Air Force (after retirement from active duty) since I have been here," said Sisneros. "I've had the opportunity to work side by side with young Airmen."

In June 1981, Sisneros was selected to be the manager of the facility and, during his tenure, has served nine secretaries and Air Force chiefs of staff.

Sisneros retired from active duty in February 1984.

The chief, as he's known to his co-workers, said it was a real honor to have the executive dining facility dedicated to him.

"This facility exists at this level because of his expertise and his efforts," said Glover.
Diana Gagnon, the Air Force Executive Dining Facility financial manager, has worked with the chief for five years. She described him as a good leader and mentor.

"He is a fair and a flexible person regarding all of our military requirements," said Gagnon. "We have learned, under chief's direction, how to make things happen."
But another task still lies ahead.

"Another challenge I face now is to teach myself how to rest, relax and enjoy retirement," Sisneros said.