Chief Peter retires after 24 years with 188th

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Cody Martin
  • 188th Wing Public Affairs
EBBING AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Ark. --  Chief Master Sgt. Bryan Peters, 188th Force Support Squadron superintendent, retired from the 188th Wing Aug. 7, 2016.

Surrounded by devoted friends and colleagues, his retirement ceremony concluded a successful military career that started in May of 1992, and profoundly affected many people's lives. 

"In your distinguished 24-year career, I think you've echoed the Chief's Creed," said Col. Bobbi Doorenbos, 188th Wing commander. "I feel incredibly lucky to have known you, worked with you, trusted you, relied on you for advice and confided in you when I needed you. You will be sorely missed."

Peters began working full-time at the 188th Mission Support Flight January 1997 as the noncommissioned officer in charge of the career enhancements section. Since then, Peters has served in a variety of positions within the 188th FSS to include customer service career enhancements, employments and readiness and base education before becoming the superintendent Jan. 15, 2012.

Peters supported Operation Noble Eagle at home-station, Operation Enduring Freedom in Karshi-Khanabad Air Base, Uzbekistan and Hurricane Katrina.

Doorenbos presided over the ceremony and emphasized the effect Peters had with the 188th Wing.

"This retirement is especially close to the hearts of many in this room, including me, because of the influence and impact [Peters] has had on the members of this wing, the members he has faithfully served for his entire career," Doorenbos stated.

Peters stressed the importance of leaders to make tough decisions and to not be afraid of making mistakes.

"Don't be afraid to make decisions," Peters stated. "Sometimes you are going to get it right, sometimes you are going to get it wrong, but make the decision. If you get it wrong, learn from it and you'll make the right decision next time."

The ceremony ended with many kind words from current and former co-workers.