1/27/2012 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan - Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Shumpert, 35th Civil Engineer Squadron superintendent, places dog tags on the fallen warrior monument during the Chief Recognition Ceremony here, Jan. 25. The fallen warrior ceremony pays tribute to our fellow veterans that have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the fundamental rights and way of life of Americans. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Marie Brown)

1/27/2012 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan - Misawa's newest Chiefs watch as Airman 1st Class Ivan Abreu, 35th Civil Engineer Squadron structural apprentice, lights the A1C candle during the Chief Recognition Ceremony here, Jan. 25. Each candle represents an enlisted grade in the U.S. Air Force up to chief. Chief Master Sergeant is the highest enlisted rank and is only held by one percent of all enlisted members. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Marie Brown)

1/27/2012 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan - Chief Master Sgt. Russell Hastings, 35th Fighter Wing command chief, recites the charge of office to Misawa's newest chiefs during the Chief Recognition Ceremony here, Jan. 25. The rank of Chief Master Sergeant was established Dec. 1, 1959 and the individuals promoted on this date became known as the Charter Chiefs. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Marie Brown)