Chief Master Sgt. Thomas N. Barnes Plaque - Lackland AFB, Texas
Posted by: 
BruceS
N 29° 23.475 W 098° 37.080
14R E 537065 N 3251394
Plaque honoring former crew chief and fight engineer who later became the fourth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force located adjacent to the parade field at Lackland Air Force Base.
Waymark Code: WM3D3M
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 03/17/2008
Views: 78
C-118
...an enlisted story.
Chief Master Sgt. Thomas N. Barnes
Although Chief Barnes was a crew chief and flight engineer aboard a wide
variety of aircraft, including the C-118, he cast a much broader shadow later in
his career when he was named the fourth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force in
October 1973. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1949 and trained to repair
aircraft engines and hydraulic systems. Chief Barnes was soon involved in
moving aircraft, troops and equipment in defense of a beleaguered South Korea, a
task that was renewed during the War in Southeast Asia. However, his
subsequent role as the Air Force's top enlisted person imparted a most lasting
effect on the enlisted force. His continued efforts on behalf of quality of
life issues; medical care, housing and pay parity, are legendary. Although
the final results may not have occurred during his tenure as CMSAF, the
improvements he proposed and supported resulted in increased recruitment and
retention. He served as CMSAF four years, longer than any who served in
the capacity before or since. His dedication made life better for all
airmen. ~ text of plaque