11/12/2009 - Col. Emily Buckman, 21st Space Wing Mission Support commander, meets retired Chief Master Sgt. Dorothy W. Holmes at the wing's Retiree Recognition Reception Nov. 3 on Peterson Air Force Base. Chief Holmes is the first woman chief master sergeant to retire from the U.S. Air Force with more than 30 years of service. She was not planning on making the Air Force a career, she said, when she joined in 1949. However, she loved her assignments and her work. She served in Europe, Puerto Rico, two tours in Asia and throughout the United States. Chief Holmes was assigned to the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1976 to usher in the first class of female cadets. She served as the woman senior NCO role model and later was presented with the Legion of Merit for her work there. Today, Chief Holmes volunteers at the 21st Space Wing Retiree Activities Office. The Retiree Recognition Reception is among several events this month to highlight the Year of the Air Force Family. Special events and activities for all of Air Force family members are planned for the next several months to highlight existing and new family programs. (Photo courtesy of the 21st Space Wing Airman & Family Readiness Center)