Command Chief marches BMT bomb run for first time

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Hillary Stonemetz, Public Affairs
  • AFRS
LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas - --  Air Force Recruiting Service Command Chief Master Sgt. Ruben Gonzalez marched down the Basic Military Training bomb run for the first time here in his 25-year career recently.

When Chief Gonzalez entered BMT in 1985, he qualified for an accelerated basic training program, called Proficiency Advancement, due to his Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps experience.

"I was offered a great opportunity and I took it," Chief Gonzalez said. "It was a very tough and detailed program. Any little mistake would be cause for disqualification."

There were three major components to the Proficiency Advancement program. First, the trainees had to pass a written test on general military knowledge. Second, they had to pass a drill inspection to ensure they knew all drill commands and military courtesies. Finally, the trainees were given a verbal test and interview by the squadron commander.

"I passed all the requirements and was able to complete Basic Military Training in three weeks," Chief Gonzalez said. "But I never got to be a part of a BMT graduation parade. After attending a few parades and experiencing the event, I've always wished I'd had that opportunity. I especially wanted to give my parents the experience."

Chief Gonzalez's wish came true when he was invited to be the adjutant during the BMT graduation at April 29. In addition to leading the BMT graduation march, he also had the honor of awarding the Honor Flight their guidon streamer.

"As I stepped on the bomb run I had goose bumps of excitement imagining all the great Airmen and senior leaders who have marched there. It's an honor to be able to say I've marched along side of our great Airmen," he said.

"After 25 years, I hope I made the 3704th Military Training Instructors proud," he added.

Chief Gonzalez's family attended the ceremony and witnessed his march down the bomb run. He honored his parents, mother-in-law and his honorary parents, retired Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Robert Gaylor and his wife Selma, with Parent Pins.

Parent Pins are a way to thank parents of America's airmen for supporting their children's service.

Today BMT is 8.5 weeks long and no longer offers the Proficiency Advancement program.