A diamond in the rough Published May 15, 2014 By James Branch 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- If being selected 94th Airlift Wing First Sergeant of the Year isn't hard enough, think about the challenge of competing for and being selected by both the 94th AW and 22nd Air Force. That's the case for Master Sgt. Travon Dennis, 94th Logistics Readiness Squadron first sergeant, who was named best in the wing and numbered Air Force. "This is an amazing feeling." Dennis said. "To be selected in such high regard amongst my peers is truly a humbling and rewarding honor." Since becoming a first sergeant May 4, 2012, Dennis has been afforded the opportunity to mentor and influence Airmen of all ranks in his unit. He insists the number one factor in accomplishing such an achievement is being a part of such a great squadron. "This is honestly the most rewarding job I have had in my Air Force career," he said. "I have the privilege of working side by side with my commander, and I'm exposed to all facets of my squadron and wing level operations. I can call anyone in leadership any time of the day and they will go out of their way to assist me." "First sergeants must be self-starters," said Chief Master Sgt. Wendell Peacock, 94th Airlift Wing command chief. "Dennis has displayed the highest level of initiative, first by becoming a first sergeant and second, by volunteering to deploy and serve our Airmen overseas. He is very deserving of this award." Things weren't always so simple at the beginning of Dennis' tenure. Like other positions within the Air Force, there are some unique challenges to being a first sergeant. "Building relationships with the unit was challenge in the beginning," he said. "Learning the job, and the members in my squadron felt overwhelming during the first few months. I dove into the position full speed ahead, but no one knew who I was, or what I stood for, other than being the first sergeant, or "shirt". I made a constant effort to visit to each member's work section and engage in practical conversation." For Dennis, building relationships is not only limited to the inside, but extends outside of the squadron. "It's important to treat each person with respect," he said. "It only takes seconds to ask someone how there day is going or how their family is doing. Sending an e-mail is not enough. Face to face conversations help prevent potential communication conflicts. A Macon, Ga. native, Dennis entered the Air Force Reserve Feb. 25, 1994 as a cook for the 94th Services Squadron, now known as the 94th Force Support Squadron. He was later assigned to the 622nd SVS, and 94th AW Public Affairs office as a photographer. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Visual Communications from American InterContinental University. "First sergeants are the most called upon group in a wing," said Peacock. "They must have a desire to serve others." Dennis encourages Airmen who want an opportunity to lead, and challenge themselves to explore the opportunity of becoming a first sergeant. "Becoming a first sergeant will definitely make you a better Senior NCO, but if you are only doing it for the promotion opportunity, or for the prestige of the title, then this is not the job for you," he said. Dennis insists that his priority is people, and extracting the best out of them. "I recall an Airman that many had given up on," he said. He was listed as a bad seed. While talking with the Airman I realized he was just misunderstood. I took him under my wing and now he is thriving. I made that investment in him because I was once listed as a bad seed. I've received two letters of counseling and a letter of reprimand during my career. Never judge a book by its cover." The 94th LRS first shirt's advice to Airmen, "Give your absolute all until you have nothing else left!"
