Chief Walter retires after 36 years

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Josh Kincaid
  • 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Chief Master Sgt. Robert L. Walter, 94th Force Support Squadron superintendent, celebrated his retirement with a ceremony held here July 14.

 

Brig. Gen. Richard L. Kemble, 94th Airlift Wing commander, presided over the ceremony.

 

“36,” stated Kemble, “36 years of faithful service to this country, including the Guard and the Reserve. He’s leaving a legacy behind.”

 

Since enlisting in 1981, the Calhoun, Georgia native has been a member of the active-duty Air Force, Air National Guard and, most recently, the Air Force Reserve.

 

“There are Airmen out here at Dobbins who have benefited from his expertise, professionalism, integrity and loyalty,” Kemble said.

 

Walter has held his superintendent position since October 2012.

 

“You learn that the Air Force is a family,” said Walter. “When I got out in 1985, I made it two or three months before I realized there was something missing. It was the camaraderie we had as a group.”

 

Family, friends, coworkers and acquaintances honored the chief by gathering at the Consolidated Club and celebrating his Reserve Citizen Airman story.

 

“Saying thanks for the last 36 years is just not enough, but I hope that I’ve worked with you long enough that I passed something along somewhere along the way,” Walter said.

 

“He’s going to leave a void,” said Kemble. “There’s no doubt.”