Thank you first sergeant Published Dec. 22, 2009 By Chief Master Sgt. James B. Lucas 48th Fighter Wing command chief ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- "Thank you first sergeant." Wow, imagine if one could copyright that familiar phrase and receive a nickel every time it was said. We'd be rich, right? Think about it. How many times have you been walking around the corridors of your squadron and heard young Airmen on their way out of the shirt's office saying, "Thanks for your help first sergeant" or "Thanks for the advice first sergeant" coming from your commander? Or a group of senior non-commissioned officers thanking their first sergeant for assistance with an issue? We hear it so often around our wing and the Air Force that we hardly give it a second thought. And that's exactly my point. I'd attest that not only have we always owned the copyright to those four words, but we also own the patent on developing a SNCO corps eager and capable of meeting the demands of the first sergeant position. Our wealth can't be measured in dollars, pounds or pesos, but our fortune is no less valuable. We have acquired something far more precious and with your leadership, we'll continue to amass our fortune. Although just metaphor, those words of appreciation are very significant, but are really only the interest on an item of greater value: the dedication of our first sergeants and those that rise to that challenge. Are you ready for a demanding, but very rewarding career opportunity? Do you want to make a positive difference in the lives others? If so, I highly encourage you to consider a tour as a first sergeant. You won't be sorry you did. Please see your unit first sergeant for more information and duty requirements. Oh, by the way, the "Thank yous" are tax free.