Promotion is never easy, it comes with new responsibilities and expectations. With each stripe is a new step in your story, a journey of where you've been and where you're going. It sounds cliché but there is a lot of truth to it.
To be promoted to Master Sergeant (MSgt) it first takes several tests that prove you have the competence to understand the structure and responsibility of the next ranks as a Senior Non-Commision Officer (SNCO). In addition to passing three tests you must earn the respect and trust of your supervisors and commanders. Every meeting, project and accomplishment is earning your leadership's trust you're ready for the next rank. Once you've proven yourself to your direct leadership you must prove yourself to Wing Leadership through an application and interview process.
The next challenge is to quantify your accomplishments in a narrative and ~45 minute interview. You must validate to those you may have never met why your direct leadership believes in you as a leader.
It's a huge step from Technical Sergeant (TSgt) to Master Sergeant. You're not only expected to be an expert at your job but have the ability to lead your airmen by example, follow your leaders, guide your organization by managing resources and create an environment of trust and honor. More cliches but there is more truth to it. I'm nervous yet encouraged by the trust my leadership has in me.
Ten years ago Heather and I decided to make a step toward establishing your future, a testament to our love and trust in each other. A decision that had the potential to set us up for our future. Heather trusts me to be successful professionally and I trust her to always be there for me and me for her.
Without Heather none of my success would be possible, because of her I'm able to serve our wonderful country. I'm able to put on this uniform everyday, support and defend our constitution because of Heather. She is the definition of a patriot, she is my rock. She has raised three respectful, beautiful children whether I'm home or traveling for work, late nights or early mornings. If you've known us these past 10+ years you know we've been near and far from family. For some we are expected to always see from your perspective, we've made this choice and we share it with you. The amazing places we've lived and visited but there is so much you do not know. We don't bother you with invitations or expectations but our home is always open for those who want to be a part of our journey. There have been more challenges than you know (which doesn't take away from your own) which is why we are stronger then ever. We rely on each other every moment of every day because we've been hurt too many times in the past to count and honestly we don't trust anyone else. Heather is my rock and she deserves these stripes, she deserves more than what I can give her right now so I have to remind myself that we made this decision together for a future most of you don't understand. A future that will make sure generations of Polnicky have a place to call home but not in the traditional sense. A home where no matter the distance apart, we will focus on what we do have, each other.
Whether your impact on us has been small or large, Thank you!
To Heather, McKaila, McKenna and Logan, Thank you for always loving me, being by side, sharing this journey. I do this all for you because I know you'd do the same for me.
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