Know your Shirt: 36th SFS first sergeant gets more, gives back

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Miranda Moorer
  • 36 Wing/Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  After working 20 satisfying years as an aircraft maintainer, the current 36th Security Forces Squadron first sergeant knew he wanted more out of his career in the Air Force.

"I was looking for a change and I wasn't ready to retire from the Air Force yet," said Master Sgt. Daniel Willand. "I stepped into this opportunity with my eyes wide open thinking I was a pretty good leader."

In June 2004 Sergeant Willand began his 'apprenticeship' under Chief Master Sgt. Diane Morelli, 92nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant. At the time, she was the mentor who prepared him as an "Under Shirt."

Sergeant Willand attended the First Sergeant Academy in October 2004. Altus AFB, Okla., is where he spent his first assignment as a "diamond wearer" assigned to the 97th Operations Support Squadron.

In March 2007, Sergeant Willand made his way to Andersen to serve as first sergeant of the 36th Security Forces Squadron.

He takes pride in being the primary advisor to the commander on all enlisted force issues and ensuring his squadron is poised and ready to bring the fight whenever and wherever needed.

"He does what first sergeants are supposed to do...he takes care of us," said Senior Airman Anthony Beers, 36th SFS. "He's thorough, and he gets to the bottom of things."

"Helping Airmen overcome or adapt to challenges that come up in their careers is the best reward to me," said Sergeant Willand.

But the hardest part about being a first sergeant is hearing those dreadful words "there has been an accident" or receiving a death notification.

"Equally difficult is telling someone their career is over. Whether it be their own failing, by not adhering to our core values or being notified by a Medical Evaluation Board that you are no longer fit to serve; delivering the news is a never easy," he said.

The combination of friends who weren't afraid to show him "tough love," supervisors who took the time to explain the "Air Force way of life" and Chiefs who took him under their wings, contributed to the person he is today.

Sergeant Willand wants his troops to know that he stands for "truth, justice and the American way."

"I am always seeking the truth when dealing with substandard behavior. Too often these issues have led to a recommendation to my squadron or group commander that justice be administered. And the American way is something all in uniform believe in. Otherwise, why are we serving today?" he said.

While Sergeant Willand is thankful for everything he has learned from the Air Force and people from his past, he is equally thankful for the opportunity to share what he has learned with sergeants who may one day be our future first sergeants.

"Remember, never underestimate the impact you have in someone's life," he said.

Sergeant Willand is also a member of the Lutheran Church of Guam where he serves on a committee and leads fellowship events. He is an active member of the Air Force Sergeant's Association, Chapter 1560, Andersen AFB, Guam. And he is a committee member of the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 20 and an Air Force Association Member.


This article is the fourth in a series of articles based on getting to know the first sergeant...