Wing names new command chief

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Veronica A. Aceveda
  • 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Having served all 22 years of his Reserve career here at Dover, the 512th Airlift Wing's new command chief is no stranger to the base or its people. 

Chief Master Sgt. William T. Wild III comes to the command section from the security forces realm, where he progressed through the ranks from airman basic to chief master sergeant. Chief Wild has served in a variety of job titles, from base patrol and flight chief to combat arms and security forces manager. 

The latest of which will be as the wing's third command chief, the highest enlisted rank for the unit. 

"It's still sinking in," said the chief who assumes his responsibilities in April. "I can still remember my promotion to buck sergeant; that was a big day for me. The importance of becoming an NCO was huge and something that wasn't taken lightly. I still have that certificate hanging in my office at home. So, this appointment to command chief is the pinnacle of my career." 

Unlike the past few years, when the command chief position called for full-time service, the duty is now heading back towards its traditional Reserve status. 

"I realize my time is more limited, but my goal is to have more enlisted representation through the Top 3 and the Chiefs' Group," said the chief who's a 19-year police officer in Anne Arundel County, Md. 

He's lived there his entire life with his wife Betz of 17 years and their two sons and daughter. Chief Wild can often be seen at his town's local baseball field as he's been coaching little league for 15 years. His family also likes to spend time boating on the Chesapeake Bay. 

Although he's eligible to retire soon from his civilian job as a cop, Chief Wild said he's not ready to give it up yet. 

"I love the job; it's a calling," he said. "It's different work everyday; no two calls are the same." 

Whether he's drilling for the military or working in the civilian sector, the chief's leadership style is the same. 

"I have a very direct approach," he said. "If I ask for something to be fixed, I expect it to be fixed. Of course, every issue is different. I do look at the big picture, the goal and try to determine the best way to approach it and go to that resource." 

Chief Wild also added, he's a firm believer in bringing a suggested solution to the table along with a problem. 

"I'll help you with the solution, but I don't have all the answers," he said. 

As the newest member of the wing's senior leadership begins making rounds to various shops and offices over the next few months, Chief Wild said it's his goal to meet as many Airmen as possible to find out what their concerns are. 

"I am approachable," he said. "I've been told before that I have a rough exterior, but beneath that rough exterior, I truly care about the Airmen and ensuring we're doing what's right by them. 

It's similar to performing post checks in security forces, he said, adding the only difference now is those post checks include the entire base.