The Second Annual AFNORTH Enlisted Leadership and Development Subject Matter Expert Exchange in May 2024 provided a valuable platform for enlisted leaders across the hemisphere to exchange knowledge. SENIOR MASTER SGT. ALEJANDRO VELEZ/AFNORTH
AIR FORCES NORTHERN
The Mexican Secretariat of National Defense (DEFENSA) and the Mexican Air Force (FAM) reached a historic milestone March 1 with the establishment of the Sargento Primero Ayudante del Comandante de la Fuerza Aérea Mexicana, the highest enlisted position within FAM. This achievement reflects the dedication of DEFENSA and FAM Commander Gen. Óscar René Rubio Sánchez, whose commitment to enlisted force development has strengthened the foundation of FAM and empowered its enlisted corps.
Chief Master Sgt. John G. Storms, command senior enlisted leader (CSEL) for United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), stated: “This milestone mirrors a pivotal moment in U.S. Air Force history — April 3, 1967, when the position of Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (CMSAF) was established, ensuring enlisted representation at the highest levels of leadership. Now, Sargento Jesús Hernández Cazares assumes this groundbreaking role, setting a new standard for the FAM enlisted force. Just as Chief Paul Airey’s name is forever remembered in the USAF, Sargento Hernández will be recognized as the first enlisted leader to represent the Mexican Air Force at the highest institutional level.”
Strengthening Enlisted Leadership
This achievement is the result of continuous investment in enlisted leadership development, professional military education and force structure modernization by DEFENSA and FAM, which have prioritized enlisted professional growth and representation, ensuring a clear path for leadership within the institution.
Over the years, Air Forces Northern (AFNORTH) has supported these efforts through subject matter expert exchanges (SMEE), leadership development initiatives and strategic engagements. Events such as the Senior Enlisted Leader International Symposiums in 2021, 2022 and 2024 provided a valuable platform for enlisted leaders across the hemisphere to exchange knowledge and strengthen operational compatibility.
Throughout this journey, enlisted leaders from across different organizations, including Chief Master Sgt. Diego Yoshisaki (former AFNORTH SEL, now senior enlisted advisor for the secretary of the Air Force, international affairs) and Senior Master Sgt. Alejandro Velez (AFNORTH A5 SEL and 9L1 international affairs specialist), facilitated SMEE and leadership exchanges, sharing experiences from their own enlisted force development paths. These engagements strengthened relationships and contributed to a foundation of continued professional growth.
Reflecting on the importance of enlisted leadership, Yoshisaki stated: “Enlisted leaders play a key role, setting the foundation for mission success. Our strength is in developing those who will lead after us.”
Similarly, Velez emphasized the importance of enlisted and officer collaboration, stating: “Enlisted leaders are not just supporters; we are force multipliers, complementing and strengthening the vision of our officers to achieve success together.”
As Sargento Hernández takes on this important leadership role at Air Force Headquarters in Mexico City, he will help shape the future of FAM enlisted leaders.