Recent recruit sets sights on chief

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Andrea Williamson
  • 108th Wing

Similar to Thomas N. Barnes, who became the first African American appointed to Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force in 1973, recent recruit Airman Anthony Lemarc Cole Jr. has set his sights on the rank of chief.

LeBron James always say ‘Strive for Greatness’,” said Cole, a traffic management specialist of the 108th Logistics Readiness Squadron. “That quote itself just makes me want to work harder every day and continue making a name for myself.”

As a traffic management specialist, “I’m responsible for using military and commercial transportation to move personnel, eligible dependents, material, and property,” said Cole. “I package, classify, and arrange personal property and cargo for shipment or storage across the globe via all modes of transportation to include air, ground, rail and vessel.

Like many who wear the uniform, Cole’s main motivation for joining the Air National Guard was to serve others and carry out a purpose bigger than himself.

I always felt that my purpose was to serve people and help to the best of my abilities,” Cole said.

Still, what Cole enjoys most about his Air Force Specialty Code is his integral leadership and being hands on with a team that expresses value in him.

One of the things I love about my AFSC is that I get to be hands on at all times,” said Cole. “We have a demanding career field that keeps me busy. However, my leadership sets the bar high to follow in their footsteps.”

I feel honored to continue the legacy of serving this country as an African American male,” said Cole. “I love that no matter what race or ethnicity you are, we’re still brothers and sisters in arms, and we will always have each other backs.”

Such an awareness to those examples set before him both past and present, shows in Cole’s work ethic and positive attitude. In his year and two months of service, Cole said his proudest moment so far was passing his career development course test and becoming a temporary technician within his shop.

With many years ahead and hard fought service to be had, Cole’s goals and optimism makes his ambition of chief, possible.

My short term goal is to get signed off on my core tasks and become a 5 level. I’m looking forward to joining the ranks of an NCO,” said Cole. “My long term goal is to become proficient in my AFSC and one day to become a chief master sergeant. At the end of the day, I want to make a difference in a positive way.”