18th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force

Kaleth O. Wright served as the 18th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force from February 17, 2017, to August 14, 2020. During this assignment he served as the personal adviser to the Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale, and proper utilization and progress of the enlisted force. CMSAF (Ret) Wright is the second African-American to serve in this position. He’s often referred to by the nickname “Enlisted Jesus” by airmen on the internet due to his successful advocacy and reforms on behalf of enlisted personnel. CMSAF (Ret) Wright enlisted in the United States Air Force in March 1989 and his background includes various duties in the dental career field. He served as a Professional Military Education instructor and held various senior enlisted positions while serving at squadron, group, wing, Taskforce and Numbered Air Force levels. He deployed in support of Operations Desert Shield/Storm and Enduring Freedom and completed overseas tours in the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Germany. Prior to assuming the position of Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, he was the Command Chief Master Sergeant, United States Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa, with headquarters at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. As the command chief, he was the senior enlisted advisor to the commander on all matters affecting the readiness, training, professional development, and effective utilization of more than 21,000 enlisted force personnel. Additionally, he coordinated with the headquarters staff, commanders, and senior personnel on administration and implementation of command policy. He championed and directed enlisted theater security engagement and built partnership capacity in an area of responsibility that comprises 104 countries in support of both United States European Command and United States Africa Command. He currently serves as the CEO of the Air Force Aid Society where he guides a team that provides $20 million per year in emergency financial assistance, scholarships, and community programs to service members and their families. Additionally, as a dynamic and engaging public speaker, he has delivered over 200 keynote addresses to audiences of all sizes around the world. He also worked with Congress on legislative affairs to enhance quality of life policies and programs for service members and their families.