New command chief shares views Published Feb. 25, 2009 By Capt. S.J. Brown 934th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Minneapolis-St. Paul -- Editor's Note: Command Chief Master Sgt. Robert Cluka was selected as the 934th Airlift Wing command chief in January. Here, the chief shares some of his views on the job and what he hopes to accomplish. What made you decide to apply for the Command Chief position? It was a chance to serve and represent the Airmen of the 934th Airlift Wing at a level that would make a difference. How did your background shape you for this role? The diversity that I experienced both on active duty and in the Reserves helped to shape me, but most of all my mentors (both enlisted and officers) develop my leadership abilities. Also, having the opportunity to attend Professional Military Education from Airman to Senior NCO taught me to look at every situation differently. What are some of the challenges facing the enlisted force today that you want to tackle? Acceptance: Accepting change in programs, policy and structure. Accepting that we are an operational force and the commitment it will take to support that. Accepting sacrifices (service before self) and knowing that the award will be ten folds greater down the road. What do you hope to accomplish during your time as Command Chief for the 934th AW? One goal would be to continue to build a viable and mission capable enlisted force. The 934th AW has one of the best enlisted forces in the Reserve and we know it, our next goal is to let everyone else know it by the way we perform. What is the biggest piece of advice you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps and become a Command Chief? Don't wait for opportunity to find you! Be ready, take on extra responsibility, complete your PME at every level, and be ready to except challenging positions (e.g. first sergeant, group, wing and numbered AF level).