Incirlik Airmen receive 'Below the Zone'

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Caleb Pierce
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Three Incirlik Air Base Airmen were selected for early advancement to the rank of Senior Airman, March 21, 2016.

Airman 1st Class Justin Mickle, 39th Logistics Support Squadron, Airman 1st Class Jordanrey Queral, 39th Security Forces Squadron, and Airman 1st Class Elijah Grenier, 39th Communications Squadron, were selected as the first quarter, 'Below the Zone' winners.

"The Airmen selected for BTZ made a positive impact to our mission and displayed superior leadership in their duties and around the wing," said Chief Master Sgt. Vegas Clark, 39th Air Base Wing command chief. "To be selected for BTZ ahead of their peers says a lot about these fine Titans' work ethic and exceptional performance."

Airman 1st class may compete for early advancement to senior airman if they meet the minimum eligibility criteria. If promoted to senior airman 'Below the Zone', their promotion effective date would be six months before their fully qualified date.

Airman 1st Class Elijah Grenier, Communications Focal Point operations controller, explained that it felt great to be selected for this opportunity and he is very grateful.

"I try my best every day to excel at my job," said Grenier. "I also found it important to get involved outside of work whether it was in the [Incirlik] community or on base."

The Air Force promotes individuals based on their sustained superior performance, but also for their potential to excel at the next grade. 

"These Airmen can't rest and be satisfied; there is a lot of responsibility Senior Airmen are entrusted with and their leadership and co-workers will be watching closely to see if they can live up to those responsibilities as senior airman," said Clark.

BTZ selections are considered in December for January through March promotions, March for April through June promotions, June for July through September promotions, or September for October through December promotions.

According to the Enlisted Force Structure, the responsibilities of senior airman, begin developing supervisory and leadership skills through progressive responsibility on the job, completion of Airman Leadership School, individual study, and mentoring by their supervisors and others.