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A legacy of helping....After 20 years as first sergeant, chief retires

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jeff Kelly
  • 315th Airlift Wing
CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Chief Master Sgt. Curtis Allen, first sergeant for the 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, is set to retire in December of this year. 

When he does, he will retire with more than 36 years of military service, but what is astounding is that he has been a first sergeant for the last 20 years. He has been leading Airmen in this capacity for more than two decades and has been in this position longer than some Airmen’s entire military careers. 

Chief Allen joined the military in December 1969 and was appointed first sergeant of the 315th Organizational Maintenance Squadron in 1985. 

As the squadron name changed to 315th Aircraft Generation Squadron in June 1992 and then later in October 2002 to its current name of the 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Chief Allen continued in the position of first sergeant. He will serve in this capacity until his retirement in December. 

“My long tenure as a first sergeant was governed by the golden rule -- do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” said Chief Allen. “This is such a simple statement but it has enormous meaning and I feel it goes hand in hand with the Air Force core values. 

“My job has been people, and everyone has been my business. I have never felt as tall as when I was stooping down to help someone.” 

As a first sergeant, Chief Allen had the responsibility of keeping his commander informed on all matters affecting the health, morale, discipline and welfare of all the enlisted maintenance squadron personnel. This is a responsibility he took very seriously. 

Spending 20 years as a first sergeant has afforded Chief Allen special insight into the necessities of this position. 

“Take care of your people and they will take care of you,” said Chief Allen. “This psychology has worked for me for over 20 years as a first sergeant assigned to the 315th Airlift Wing. I found out very early in my career that just putting on the diamond did not bring automatic respect, but that it is earned through one’s daily actions.” 

Chief Allen’s actions have certainly gained him respect among his subordinates, peers and superiors. This sentiment is reflected in words from his current commander.
“Senior NCOs smile as they recall Chief Allen correcting a behavior or an attitude, they are quck to credit him with having a valuable impact on their careers,” said Lt. Col. Vicki Sullivan, commander 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. 

“Molding Airmen for the future has been his legacy, one that will carry on in this squadron. He has had a major impact on a countless number of careers, and he will be remembered, emulated and appreciated.” 

As Chief Allen retires from the 315th AW, Charleston Air Force Base will be losing an amazing leader who has influenced countless individuals within the wing. 

“My heart and mind will continue to be active with my beloved squadron’s well-being and continued successes,” said Chief Allen. “I will never forget each and everyone who has had a part in my career. To the men and women of the 315th Airlift Wing and especially the 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
The members of Team Charleston say “thank you” to you as well, Chief Allen.