02/17/2026
There are times I think back at my 20 years in the military and wonder, did i make a difference in someone? I supervised and mentored Airmen, NCO's, and maybe a few Officers in my time and I think every leader wonders that same thing from time to time. I always tried to be a leader that someone wanted to follow because of the person rather then had to follow due to rank, I learned that from the leaders who I would share a foxhole with anytime, anywhere.
Last week I recieved a couple messages almost at the same time from a brother and sister in arms, telling an old airmen I supervised posted something on Instagram and was looking for me. They both sent it to me. As I read the post I had to sit down as I was overwhelmed with joy and pride
This Airman is now a Chief Master Sergeant with 23 years in the military and was speaking to a class of young future leaders and I was the object of his speech.
I immediately reached out to his and we reconnected. He said I probably didnt remember him but of course I remembered him. I was his 1st supervisor and ill be honored to be at his retirement ceremony early next year.
Reading what he wrote was amazing and things like that is more impacting to me then any commadantion or medal I recieved, knowing that someone remembered you for the type of leader and person you were is what legacy's are made of
Thank you Scott Bedford, you made this old retired MSgt's soul smile!!! Thank you Emily Lowrie and Tim Franseen for connecting us!!
