The new Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Rodney McKinley, has pursued a varied career before ascending to the top enlisted post in the Air Force. McKinley talked with Stars and Stripes, describing his break in service and career field changes, something that makes him ideally suited to working with many of today’s airmen. (McKinley became the 15th CMSAF on June 30.)
The U.S. military is maintaining a beefed-up presence in the Middle East, including fighters and air defense assets, following the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities June 22 and subsequent retaliation by the Iranians against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.