Dejoode achieves Chief rank in base ceremony Published Dec. 7, 2012 By Master Sgt. Mike R. Smith 139th Airlift Wing ST. JOSEPH, MO. -- Chief Master Sgt. Barbara Dejoode was promoted to the top enlisted rank here Dec. 7 before a gathering of service members, family and friends at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base. Her family helped add the eighth stripe to her uniform in a pinning ceremony at the Base Dining Hall. The event was attended by Airmen from across Rosecrans. "She's a rock star among the senior NCOs," said Col. Michael Pankau, base commander. "She has already displayed all of the qualifications in the measures of a chief ... you all should be very proud." Dejoode is the longest serving member at the 139th Airlift Wing's Force Support Squadron where she works as Superintendent. She also serves on the Wing's Honor Guard Team where she helps support military ceremonial honors at events and at veteran interments. "Being a Chief is an honor and a privilege," said Dejoode. "It's something that is very high-standard that I didn't think I would ever really make. I know that mentoring is the main job that I have to do." "A chief should be a good mentor, and Barb fits that bill perfectly," said Col. Norman Brosi, Mission Support Group commander. Members of the Chiefs' Association inducted her into their group. "It's a rank that many strive to achieve, but a few actually reach," said Chief Master Sgt. Gaila Sullivan, Wing command chief.