Thirty-one year Chief retires Published July 16, 2009 By Senior Airman Alexandra Longfellow 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Chief Master Sgt. Robert L. Hartzog, 2d Maintenance Group superintendent, retired after 31 years of dedicated service to the United States Air Force. Chief Hartzog has served the Air Force to full capacity, even being approved by wing leadership to extend for a year past the 30 year service limit. While at Barksdale, Chief Hartzog served as the primary advisor to the 2d MXG commander on all matters affecting the quality welfare, morale management and leadership of more than 2,000 personnel and now graciously retires. He has many fond military memories from throughout his career. "My time in the Air Force is up," said Chief Hartzog. "But I loved every minute of it and wouldn't have changed a thing." Chief Hartzog's successful career began in October 1978 when he decided to enlist at the age of 18. After graduating basic military training, he was fortunate to be stationed at multiple bases including Dyess Air Force Base, Texas; Homestead AFB, Fla.; Andersen Air Base, Guam; England AFB, La.; Kadena AB Okinawa, Japan and Moody AFB, Ga. Prior to being stationed here for the past three years, he served as the 31st Maintenance Group superintendent at Aviano AB, Italy. From entering the Air Force as an airman basic working long hours on the flightline to making chief master sergeant and becoming a superintendent, he holds many memories of his 31-year career. "One of my most proud moments was back when I was an Airman at Dyess," the Chief said. "I was able to drive the launch truck for the first time. I was able to diagnosis the problem, fix the problem and watch that same aircraft take off. It showed me a sense of accomplishment." He has come a long way from driving launch trucks. "Chief Hartzog is an outstanding leader and mentor," said Col. Steven Shinkle, former 2d MXG commander. "He is a chief's chief, a commander's chief and a maintainer's chief. He was my equal in leading the maintenance Airmen and made us successful every day." Still, Chief recognizes fellow Airmen for his success. "I would like to give retired Master Sgt. Joe Ferrier credit for a part of making me of who I am today," said Chief Hartzog. "Joe was mine and my wife's my shop chief in Guam, well before we were married or even dating. Joe always said if our plans to get home without drinking and driving fell through to call him anytime and he would come get us. He always answered the phone and always came and got me. He was a great shop chief and truly cared for his people. He scolded when necessary, praised a lot and made sure his people were recognized for the work they did." Even with the responsibility of being a leader, he still was able to balance time with his wife of 20 years and two children, Stephanie and David. His family has supported Chief Hartzog throughout his career. "Being with my husband during his enlistment was so much fun," said Myrna Hartzog, wife of Chief Hartzog. "Many people think it is hard to be with someone in the military that is staying in for so long, but my personnel feeling is it was an honor and privilege that I was with him when he served his country. We have been many places and met many different people. I can easily say I have a great family of friends. "We are looking forward to spending personal time together by traveling in the next stage of our life," added Myrna. Chief Hartzog feels Airmen appreciated his dedicated service. "It was an honor to serve with Chief Hartzog and I thank him for his 31 years," said Colonel Shinkle. "I wish him and his wife the best in the next chapter of their life." Still, Chief attributes one motto to success in the Air Force. "Be the best," said Chief Hartzog. "Being the best is not a competition with people. It is waking up and attacking the obstacles your job has offered and taking care of your family." After 31 years, Chief Hartzog's official date of retirement will be September 1. His retirement was June 17.