Barksdale Airman step promoted

Col. Andrew Gebara, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Larry Malcom, 2 BW command chief, tacks master sergeant stripes on Tech. Sgt. John Reagan, 2nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, during a 2nd Mission Support Group formation at the gym on Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Dec. 7. Reagan was awarded the promotion through the Air Force's Stripes for Exceptional Performers program. The program recognizes Airmen who are role models to their peers, demonstrate leadership, comprehension and above-and-beyond dedication to the mission. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. La'Shanette V. Garrett)

Barksdale Airman step promoted

Col. Andrew Gebara, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Larry Malcom, 2 BW command chief, presents master sergeant stripes to Tech. Sgt. John Reagan, 2nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, during a recent 2nd Mission Support Group formation at the gym on Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Dec. 7. Reagan was awarded the promotion through the Air Force's Stripes for Exceptional Performers program. The program recognizes Airmen who are role models to their peers, demonstrate leadership, comprehension and above-and-beyond dedication to the mission. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. La'Shanette V. Garrett)

Christmas comes early in form of promotion

Published Dec. 7, 2012
By Senior Airman Katherine Holt
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- During an early morning 2nd Mission Support Group commander's call Dec. 7, Master Sgt. John Reagan was awarded his sixth stripe via the Stripes for Exceptional Performers program.

"My peers and leaders kept telling me it was time for me to be a senior NCO," said Reagan, 2nd Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution NCO in charge. "It is finally on my shoulders. I am the leader, the example."

The Stripes for Exceptional Performers recognizes Airmen who act as role models to those around them, demonstrate leadership, comprehension and above-and-beyond dedication to the mission.

During Col. Patrick Matthews', 2 MSG commander, speech about the significance of the day, Col. Andrew Gebara, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, walked in to surprise an unknowing Reagan.

"When he called my name, I had no idea what it was for," said Reagan. "I was completely shocked. Actually, I am still in awe."

Gebara was honored to present Reagan with his new stripe.

"As the 2nd Bomb Wing's 2011 NCO of the Year, I would expect nothing less of this outstanding Airman," said Gebara. "Not only does he excel in his daily duties, he ensures the 40 Airmen under him are provided with the tools for success."

It was no surprise to Reagan's leadership that he would be awarded this well-deserved promotion.

"We are so proud of him," said Senior Master Sgt. David Laun, 2 LRS fuels superintendent. "He is our go-to guy in the flight. He is doing all the things right, and every Airman should emulate this out-front leader."

The father of four said he was honored, but he couldn't have done it on his own.

"None of this could have been possible without my leadership and the Airmen I work with," said Reagan. "Everything we accomplished was a true team effort."

The Santa Barbara, Calif., native said he wouldn't be where he is today without the leaders who molded him.

"It takes one person to grab you in a certain part of your career and guide you in the right direction," said Reagan. "Now, I get to pay it back. I have the opportunity to positively shape a young NCOs career."

Reagan plans to celebrate with his family and peers at the upcoming Holiday party.