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18th AF/CCC bids farewell, thanks Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Amber R. Kelly-Herard
  • 18th Air Force
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  After 27 years of service, Chief Master Sgt. Robert Rodewald, 18th Air Force command chief, will retire Dec. 18.

"I wish I could tell every Airman, 'Thank you for your service,'" said the highest-ranking enlisted member of 18th Air Force. "I cannot say it enough."

While in the seat, Rodewald served as the advisor to the 18th Air Force commander for more than 39,000 Airmen. Eighteenth Air Force, composed of 11 wings, the 618th Air Operations Center and two stand-alone groups, is the largest Numbered Air Force in the Air Force.

"You raised your right hand and volunteered to serve in the world's greatest Air Force," said Rodewald. "Every day, remember why you volunteered to serve and how vitally important you are to its mission.

'I never set out to be a chief, and if it wasn't for great leaders in my path, I may not have even been here, but they set me up for success," he continued. "Do your job, do it well, and good things will happen, and don't forget to take care of those around you."

Rodewald entered the Air Force June 16, 1988, from Prior Lake, Minnesota, as a pavements maintenance specialist. His other assignments include serving as an Air Force recruiter, career assistant advisor and the superintendent of the Secretary and Chief of Staff of the Air Force Executive Action Group.

"The decision to retire was not easy, it's actually bittersweet, but it is the right time for me and my family to transition into the next phase of our lives," said Rodewald. "I've traveled all over the Air Force so I've seen firsthand the incredible capabilities of our organization and its Airmen, and I can depart knowing for certain our Air Force is in good hands, and for that I thank you again."

The Rodewald Family will begin their next chapter in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Rodewald will be succeeded by Chief Master Sgt. Todd Petzel, who is currently serving as the Chief, Air Force Chief's Group.