Chief Candler reflects on time at Scott Published Feb. 22, 2012 By Airman 1st Class Jake Eckhardt 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- After a 13 month assignment, Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Candler, who serves as the 375th Air Mobility Wing command chief, is headed south to be the Commandant of the Air Force Senior NCO Academy at Maxwell Air Force Base Annex, Ala. Although he wasn't part of the Scott family for very long, he said he takes with him good memories, lessons learned and lasting friendships as he continues on with his Air Force career. "I'm going to miss the people," said the 27-year veteran. "I have been fortunate to connect and build strong relationships with numerous service, family, and community members. I am always amazed at how this experience of being an American Airman and a family is enriched by that commitment to each other." This was his first assignment with Air Mobility Command, and he said he learned much about the capability that is provided for the nation's defense. "I grew more in the area of understanding how effective collaboration can work toward our advantage more so than in other positions. There are many agencies on this installation, some with different focuses on a specific region or mission, all working together behind the scenes, all never faltering, and it's just a great example of how the spirit of America is vibrant and well." The chief's lighthearted but professional demeanor earned him the respect from those around him, and none more so than Col. Michael Hornitschek, 375th Air Mobility Wing commander, who served side-by-side with Candler every day. "Chief Candler is an unbelievably powerful and positive presence who inspires us all to be the best Airmen and teammates we can be--I have learned much from this great professor of leadership," said Hornitschek. "He, Lynne, Jake and Madison will be greatly missed at Scott AFB. But, we know Chief leaves our place better than he found it, and he will go on to inspire the next generation of SNCOs as a true leader among leaders." Leaving behind friends and co-workers has created mixed feelings for the Indiana native and his family. "We've tried to project the vision of our commander and Air Force senior leadership, but being somewhere for a little over a year doesn't give a person much time to make the difference they truly want. With that said, my family and I would have liked to stay for a bit longer," he said. However, the Air Force has asked him to lead an institution that only 11 enlisted leaders have had the honor to do. Candler said his family is looking forward to the lessons and opportunities the new assignment will bring. "The Senior NCO's who attend the Air Force Senior NCO Academy, as well as the staff, should expect a focused and passionate enlisted leader," he said. "If I can ensure they grow during their time by grasping the 'why' behind being a 'servant leader' and helping them understand how they shape the world's future, then I have succeeded." Being a passionate leader has been a hallmark of his time at Scott AFB--something he's known for in every position he has served. "I'm just trying to do good things for my country and my neighbors," he said. "As long as I fulfill my responsibilities as a senior enlisted leader the outcome should be a dedicated, ready, disciplined, and motivated force that makes our nation proud each and every day," said Candler. Editor's note: There will be a farewell gathering held Feb. 24 at the enlisted lounge at the Scott Club at 4:30 p.m. to say goodbye to Chief Candler. Cost for club members is free, the cost for non-members is $7.