315th AW command chief retires Published May 5, 2006 By Tech. Sgt. Mary Hinson 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs CHARLESTON AFB, S.C. -- After 32 years of service, 315th Airlift Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Michael Petersen retired during a ceremony at Charleston Air Force Base April 22. Chief Petersen was presented with a Meritorious Medal second oak leaf cluster by Col. Gary Cook, 315th AW commander, before his retirement, which was officiated by retired Col. Norman Moore. During the ceremony, the chief reflected on his time in service, as well as told of his close calls during Vietnam. The chief began his career as an aircraft maintenance troop in the Army before switching to the Air Force Reserve. While with the 315th AW, he spent most of his time in the aircraft maintenance arena before becoming the wing’s command chief. When thanking those who had helped him get where he is today, the chief became a little emotionally, causing him to lightheartedly say, “it has now come down to this box of tissue.”The tears continued to be fought back as Chief Petersen spoke of the bond him and his deceased father, a Marine, shared within the military. The first chair in the family’s seating section was left empty and was adorned with a Marine Corps hat in honor of his father. Other highlights of the ceremony included the flag folding in which the flag was presented to the chief’s mother, Dora Mathias; the presentation of the spouse’s medal to Lorraine Petersen; and the presentation of gifts. Chief Petersen continues to hold his civilian job at Charleston Air Force Base as the Equal Employment Opportunity manager for the 437th AW.