KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Standing straight and tall, Chief Master Sgt. Neal Bethune, the 403rd Security Forces manager, looks out across the firing range. The pride he takes wearing his uniform and his demeanor instill a sense of respect, but it doesn’t intimidate.
Bethune said that what he loves the most about his job are the Airmen, who are near and dear to his heart, and motivating those Airmen.
In his civilian career, Bethune is the chief future and technology integration defense manager for Air Force Reserve Command. But once a month as a traditional reservist, he leads fire-team members with the 403rd Security Forces Squadron as the security forces manager. He’s responsible for the management of the unit, overseeing compliance, and handling various aspects of manning for the squadron.
Staff Sgt. Michael Chatagnier, 403rd SFS fire-team member, said Bethune knows how to motivate others to get the job done, but he is able to step back and talk to you on a personal level as a mentor.
“One of my best memories was when he told me what he expected of me. He personally saw something in me that I didn’t and wanted me to strive a little more in my Air Force career,” said Chatagnier.
Bethune has served as a mentor to his troops in this squadron for the last 3 years, but said he has moved through the ranks in the security forces career field for more than 28 years.
He said his years of actively working in the trenches alongside the Airmen, no matter the difference in rank, allowed him to understand his troops’ needs, and how to inspire them and effectively complete the mission.
“Chief Bethune was very militaristic in the way that you want him to be. He didn’t want the Air Force Reserve to be viewed any different than active duty,” said Chatagnier. “He made sure that we were held to the same standards, and he pushed us.”
A naturally reserved person who avoids the spotlight, Bethune said he didn’t always aspire to be a chief. But when the opportunity to do it came along, he took it and gave it his all because of how his leaders motivated him.
“Loving your Airmen and wanting to see them succeed are two qualities needed,” said Chief Master Sgt. Michael Herbert, 403rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron assistant superintendent. “And, these qualities are the cornerstones that Bethune stands on.”
“I get a since of pride watching them do their job,” said Bethune.
Bethune takes pride in his Airmen accomplishing their goals, something that he said he hopes is reflected in the humble attitude he seeks to have in his foundation as a leader.
“Honestly, this Smyrna, Georgia boy is very lucky to be where he is,” said Bethune. “I have accomplished more than I ever thought, and I didn’t do it by myself. I had a lot of good people helping me.”
Even though the chief master sergeant represents the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force, his stripes are a symbol of what he represents. Bethune said the rank does not belong to him, but to those he serves. He gives credit to others for lending their shoulders for him to stand on.
“My family, the Airmen, they inspired me to go and try,” said Bethune, when talking about seeking promotion to the rank of chief.
Bethune focused on his Professional Military Education, his fitness, the words of wisdom given by his leadership, and he strived to exhibit excellence in all he did in order to achieve his goal, he said, adding that he encourages his troops and expects them to give their best.
Bethune’s military career came to a close when he retired April 7, 2018. The next chapter of his life has him focusing on a new goal: being the best grandfather possible.
“From my perspective, he is an all-around good guy,” said Chatagnier. “We’re going to miss him.”