Chief Master Sgt. David R. Wolfe will be the 21st Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, the service announced Nov. 6.
Wolfe was selected to become the Air Force’s top enlisted leader by the new Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach who was sworn in on Nov. 3. Wolfe has been a trusted advisor to the new Chief, having served as his enlisted advisor during his last two command tours at Air Combat Command and Pacific Air Forces.
“Chief Wolfe has been my wingman, advisor, and confidant for multiple command assignments,” Wilsbach said in a statement. Wolfe served as Command Chief Master Sergeant for Air Combat Command, a position Wilsbach held until August.
During his 33-year career, Wolfe has performed missile security, space warning security, security forces, logistics, as an elite guard, and more.
“Their passion for Airmen and their families is second to none,” Wilsbach said of Wolfe and his wife Doniel.
It is traditional for new Chiefs to choose their own senior enlisted advisors, and the previous Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force David A. Flosi is retiring following the unexpected death of his wife Katy in September. Allvin is also retiring early after two years as the Air Force’s top officer.
The Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force is the principal advisor to the Air Force Chief of Staff and Secretary of the Air Force on personnel matters, such as welfare, morale, quality of life, and other issues that affect Airmen. The CMSAF also serves as the Air Force’s public voice on policies that impact rank-and-file Airmen, such as fitness and grooming standards, which Wilsbach emphasized during his time at ACC and PACAF. Enlisted Airmen make up roughly 80 percent of the Active-duty Air Force, and Wolfe will be charged with advocating for their interests. He will also serve as the face of the force to Congressional leaders and other government leaders.
Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink praised the pick.
“The selection of Chief Wolfe as our 21st Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force is the right decision during this critical time for the Air Force,” Meink said. “I know that he will continue to serve and advocate for Airmen and their families.”
