86th Airman leaves legacy at SNCOA

  • Published
  • By Air University Public Affairs
MAXWELL-GUNTER AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  One of Ramstein's own was recently honored at the Air Force Senior NCO Academy for his contributions to the Wall of Honor. 

Master Sgt. Jeff Kunkle, 86th Maintenance Squadron, painted four sepia-tone portraits of Tech. Sgt. Forrest Vosler, Airman 1st Class William Pitsenbarger, Staff Sgt. Maynard Smith, Airman 1st Class John Levitow, Staff Sgt. Henry "Red" Erwin and Staff Sgt. Archibald Mathies, a main attraction of the wall. 

"To say this is a proud moment for me is a serious understatement," he said. "To get the opportunity to leave a legacy like this is superb, but to get to do it twice is incredible." 

The effort came about as part of the legacy project for Sergeant Kunkle's graduating class, 09A. 

"We looked at the Wall of Honor, and felt we could do a better job of honoring those who have come before us," said Chief Master Sgt. Dennis Norman, SNCOA commandant. 

Sergeant Kunkle took about three months, working weekends and night to complete the paintings and the etched glass panels that adorn the academy's clock tower. 

"I had a physical problem that didn't allow me to participate fully in the physical training portion of the course, and that normally means going home," he said. "But, Chief Norman made a leap of faith and allowed me to stay. That led to first doing the etched clock panels and now doing the portraits. It is humbling. There is no other way to put it." 

Chief Norman said he never regretted his decision to let Sergeant Kunkle stay at the academy, and he feels, "Jeff has done more for the academy than we did for him."

Also in attendance for the dedication was Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney McKinley, and he said he was very pleased with the ceremony and the portraits.

"The portraits are phenomenal. A fantastic job," the chief said. "That also goes to the staff and students of the SNCOA for their efforts to continue enlisted heritage."

Compiled by Tech. Sgt. Michael Voss, 435th Air Base Wing Public Affairs