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Airmen transition from Air Force to Space Force

Swearing-in marks final step for new Guardians

Posted 3/3/21

From “Always Ready” to “Always Above,” airmen from the 607th Air Control Squadron participated in an inter-service transfer at Luke Air Force Base that moved them from the U.S. Air Force into the U.S. Space Force.

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MILITARY

Airmen transition from Air Force to Space Force

Swearing-in marks final step for new Guardians

Posted

From “Always Ready” to “Always Above,” airmen from the 607th Air Control Squadron participated in an inter-service transfer at Luke Air Force Base that moved them from the U.S. Air Force into the U.S. Space Force.

The Feb. 5 ceremony marked the final step in a nine-month process for seven airmen to become Guardians.

On May 1, 2020, the Air Force Personnel Center emailed all personnel who were within an eligible Air Force Specialty Code to announce the transfer application window was open, directing them to an online process to submit their application.

“I was told that I was eligible to transfer to the [Space Force] in technical school,” said Airman 1st Class Caleb E. Cirre, 607th Air Control Squadron cyber transport systems specialist. “My supervisors not only encouraged me to apply, but they helped me through the process.”

Transferring between branches was a bit unnerving, especially so early in his Air Force career, the airman said.

READ: Luke AFB creates Thunderbolt Spark Cell for innovators

“I was unsure whether I would accept my transfer invitation,” Airman 1st Class Cirre said. “But, I believe joining the Space Force will be a positive step in my military career, as well as my personal life. Taking that first step forward out of your comfort zone is all it takes to achieve something great.”

Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Shuck, 607th Air Control Squadron cyber transport systems specialist, said though he signed a new contract with a different branch, he believes this is just the next stage of progression for his time in service.

“I don’t feel like I’m leaving the Air Force, in the slightest,” he said. “April 2021 would have made it 10 years in the Air Force, and I’m not leaving any of it behind, I’m bringing it with me. The good and the bad will be brought to the table as lessons learned so that the Space Force can move forward.”

Tech. Sgt. Shuck spoke of the excitement of helping to lay the foundation of this new branch.

“I’ve always been in love with space and how it’s really the next step in human exploration,” he said. “It’s truly a unique opportunity to not only step into a boyhood dream but be a part of something really historic.”

Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force Roger Towberman was a crucial motivator on his decision to accept this opportunity, Tech Sgt. Shuck said. “Chief Towberman has been very open and frank that we will be building a new force from the ground up, that we will be not just filling a role but creating it,” he said. “I’d say the sky is the limit but it’s the Space Force so there really isn’t a limit anymore.”

According to an FAQ posted on the USSF website, “the Space Force will evaluate the need for more transfer opportunities after [this] initial transfer process is complete.”

“Keep an eye on the news for information and MyPers for your eligibility opportunity,” Tech Sgt. Shuck said. “Be proactive. If you want it, go get it. Don’t wait for it.”

Editor’s note: Airman 1st Class Caleb F. Butler is with the 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at Luke Air Force Base.