To be or not to be -- a Shirt? Published Feb. 1, 2012 By Master Sgt. Brandy Sharp 460th Medical Group BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Why did I become a First Sergeant? This is the simplest question and yet it is a hard question to answer. The simple, short version is that I wanted to help other people and it is a very satisfying feeling to know that you have helped someone who needed it. I have been fortunate in my leadership for various reasons but mainly I feel there is not a better way to thank a supervisor or mentor or co-worker than to follow in their leadership and guidance. If imitation is the best form of flattery, than I am ready to follow in their footsteps and help out anyone I have the ability to help. This is one angle on why I became a shirt. Another reason why I volunteered to be a "diamond" is the family. This can be the hardest angle to explain without getting to lengthy. I remember a quote by K. M. Moning that touched my heart, "Family is not always born it is sometimes found!" I want to help others have the same experience I had as a younger U.S. Air Force member. When you have a positive experience and everything around you is laughter and sunshine, you will have plenty of shoulders to share it with you. However, when you have been devastated due to uncontrollable circumstances, you may not have someone who will be in your corner. This is where a First Sergeant can help, even if it is only to provide the ear to listen and sometimes give free advice. I too have had a need for this service in my career. It is something I will always remember and I share with my children. This is another needed family. While this definition does not always fit every person, career, or assignment, when it does it is the best working environment to experience. I am a brand new First Sergeant and fully expect to have good and bad days; my goal is to make it to the end of my three years with the good days far exceeding the bad!