Is commissioning in your future?

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Rich Curry
  • 507th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma --  With the vision of gold bars glistening on the shoulders, six reservists met with the 507th Air Refueling Wing Deserving Airman Commissioning Review Board last month. 

The wing commissioning board process was created two years ago to assist unit reservists pursue their goals of assuming greater leadership roles. This was the second board convened. 

Of the five people meeting the 2004 board, four people have received commissions – people like 2nd Lieutenant Michael Maule, 507th Maintenance Group Executive Officer. Lieutenant Maule, who enlisted in the Air Force 1995, went before the first wing board held in July of 2004. “I received my Official Notification of Selection on Sept. 12, 2005 from Air Force Reserve Command Headquarters,” he said. 

After attending the Academy of Military Science’s six-week commissioning course at McGhee Tyson ANGB, Tenn., Lieutenant Maule received his commission on Feb. 17th, 2006. 

The 34-year-old stated his commissioning package was “in-work” for over a year and a half. “Getting my commission has always been a life-long goal and dream,” he said. “I wanted to be a leader and have more of an impact on the Air Force.” 

The minimum requirements for a commissioning package include:
• A Bachelor Degree (preferably with degree conferred on college transcript)
• AFOQT Results (15 percentile in the verbal and 10 percentile in the quantitative composites – pilots and navigators requirements differ)
• Satisfactory commissioning physical
• Satisfactory Fit to Fight score
• Availability to attend the Academy of Military Science and advanced job specific training
• Enlisted Performance Report (the last three)
• Satisfactory completion of Basic Military Training and appropriate technical school
• Letter of recommendation from your current commander 

Once rated, candidates will be placed on a list along with their preferences (maintenance, services, etc.). Their names remain on the selection list for one year. 

“After the (2004) panel, I waited to hear from AFRC,” he said.  “My family has always been very supportive of me and my military career. In fact, my parents even drove out to McGhee Tyson so see my graduation. That meant a lot to me,” he added. 

“Having their support has always been a blessing. My grandfather was in WWI, received a Purple Heart and other awards. Although, he was in the Army, I still look up at him as part of my inspiration and look through his military belongings. He died the year before I was born.” 

The lieutenant said another major factor in his process was the support he received from his superiors. “Maj. Chad Gericke, Lt. Col. James McDonnell and Chief Tytanic were instrumental and constantly encouraged me to continue my career growth. Without their support and drive, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” the lieutenant said. 

Although the current board is over and another board may not be held for some time, members are still encouraged to contact the Military Personnel Flight to obtain instructions for preparing packages for the next time around. 

Offering his own words of encouragement, Lieutenant Maule said, “First off, you need to make up your mind and press forward. Stay the course and don’t give up. The process can be long and grueling, but it is definitely worth it. Complete all your requirements as soon as you can, don’t procrastinate. Be proactive and don’t forget to follow-up until you have the result you’re looking for.”