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STEP Promotion

  • Published
  • 375 Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Senior Airman Christopher Balderas became Staff Sgt. Christopher Balderas during the 4th Quarter Awards Ceremony at the Scott Event Center Jan. 8, 2016. He was selected through the Stripes for Exceptional Performers and said he wears his rank proudly today, mentioning in his promotion ceremony speech that his promotion is the most meaningful thing that has ever happened in his career, and he promises to not let anyone down.

Balderas has stood apart from his peers, performing above and beyond the standards. His maturity, knowledge, attention to detail, and ability to remain calm under pressure made him an easy choice for certification as a controller. Along with being elected for the First Four Council, he solicited volunteers for many occasions, which led him to be selected as not only the 5th quarter 2015 Mission Support Group Airman of the Quarter, but the Security Forces Airman of the Quarter for both the 2nd and 3rd quarters of 2014.

Cleaning 46 acres of endangered wolf habitat to hosting over 26 educational tours for more than 500 youths, he has been a big supporter of the community involvement. Balderas was also Security Forces Squadron's top choice for Airmen Leadership School where, he won the prestigious Commandant's Award.
His leadership said that he has established himself as the gold standard amongst his peers. With his work ethic and unique ability to motivate those around him, he has clearly demonstrated he is already operating at the level of an NCO and is more than deserving to be awarded the next stripe through STEP.