"When we arrived at Buckley, the Houdek's sponsored a Top-3 barbecue at their home, giving us the first impression of our new Air Force family," Sergeant Stratton said. That career-shaping experience showed him the Air Force was more than just service to one's country - it was also a family, one motto he exuded throughout his career. Melody, the Defense Language Institute commandant, invited the then-Airman 1st Class Houdek and his future wife, then-Airman Andrea "Andi" Kane, to his home for Thanksgiving dinner. It was during his training in Monterey that Col. In the first two years of Chief Houdek's career, he attended language training at the Defense Language Institute/Foreign Language Center in Monterey, Calif., Cryptologic Skills Training at Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, and Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape school at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Wash. In November 1980, he began his Air Force journey when he entered active duty at Lackland AFB in San Antonio as an airborne cryptologic linguist. "I remember participating in, or observing, many different parades in the Cleveland area, and we always displayed the American flag at our home," the chief said.Ĭombining deep-rooted patriotism with his love of aviation, it was almost pre-destined that the young man would begin his path to becoming a chief master sergeant. He grew up in Parma, Ohio, in a patriotic home. His quiet, confident leadership is based on strong values instilled in him as a child. He also said integrity, being approachable, admitting when you're wrong, being responsive and continual improvement makes a good leader. 6 on the Buckley Air Force Base Web site. "(He) will always be respected and remembered as a friend, a leader and a chief."Ĭhief Houdek attributed his success mostly to a positive attitude in a commentary dated Oct. "(He) made a difference in the lives of many," Sergeant Stratton said. Erik Stratton, 566th Information Operations Squadron flight chief. Thomas Houdek has been guiding hundreds of joint-service enlisted members, and focusing on improving their quality of life since July 2005.ĭuring his reign here, he strengthened the partnership between the ADF and the 460th Space Wing and opened a chaplain's office enabling the ADF workforce to have access to spiritual guidance and counseling, said Master Sgt. The Aerospace Data Facility's Senior Enlisted Leader retired after a storied 26-year career Nov.
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