Seize the opportunity: command chief's thoughts on deployment Published Sept. 13, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Jessica D. Keith 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Deployments can be a major part of a servicemember's career. Some Air Force Specialty Codes require servicemembers to deploy many times in their careers while others do not deploy often. Regardless if servicemembers have deployed one time or 10, they usually return home having learned a little more about themselves. Command Chief Master Sgt. Brendan I. Criswell, the 17th Training Wing Command Chief, recently returned from his third deployment, and said being down range increased his level of understanding of himself and the Air Force. The Chief, who has served for 21 years, also said his deployments have better prepared him to lead Goodfellow's enlisted force. He was deployed from November 2009 through May of this year as superintendent for the 586th Air Expeditionary Group, which was responsible for providing operational and administrative control for joint expeditionary Airmen embedded with the Army throughout Kuwait. The Chief said it was his first opportunity to work outside of his intelligence career field supporting Airmen from several different AFSCs at the same time. He worked with security forces, vehicle operators, vehicle maintainers, personnel, logistics and many others. To put himself in his Airmen's position as much as possible, he said he participated in two convoy missions, driving more than 2,000 miles so he could fully advocate the needs of his Airmen. "Being able to walk a mile in their shoes made me a better Airman and better prepared me for being a command chief," said Chief Criswell. The Chief also emphasized the importance of developing relationships with fellow wingmen, stating one of the most beneficial relationships in his career began during a past deployment when his deployed command chief became his mentor and helped prepare him for his current position. "It's always important to have mentors no matter what level of the Air Force you are at," the New York native said. "All Airmen need to understand they are never alone in the challenges they face. They should develop a network of resources and nurture that network." In recognition for his achievements during his deployment, Chief Criswell was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement. According to the citation, his exemplary leadership of more than 500 Airmen enabled them to complete 256 combat logistics patrol missions and transport 16,000 tons of cargo. The Bronze Star is the ninth highest award given to servicemembers, and can only be given to servicemembers while in conflict with enemy forces or for heroism while engaged against opposing forces. He said Airmen who are about to deploy for the first time should make sure they are physically ready and be excited. "The things you learn and the relationships you develop will last the rest of your life," the Chief said.