Mount Ayr Record-News
Mount Ayr, Ringgold County, Iowa
Thursday, September 19, 2002

A Columbus Air Force Base non-commisioned officer was surprised with an extra strip for his hard work and dedication for the Air Force mission with a Stripes for Exceptional Performers promotion recently.

Tech. Sgt. Charles N. MANDERS, Jr., 14th Security Forces Squadron, received the promotion to master sergeant from Major General James Sandstrom, 19th Air Force commander. Sandstrom gave the stripe during a surprise visit to the security forces squadron during their commander's call while he was visiting Columbus Air Force Base for the wing change of command.

MANDERS is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles N. MANDERS of Sun Valley Lake.

Among MANDERS' many accomplishments was being handpicked to fill the security forces administration position. a job normally filled by a master sergeant. He also was the wing's lead NCO in organizing all security, parking and escorting for the base's 2001 Air Show and organized National Police Week activities attended by over 80 local agencies.

"Without any hesitation I can say this is the proudest day of my life," said MANDERS. "I am honored to become part of an elite group, the senior NCO corps. The best part of this promotion is what it will allow me to continue to do what I love best -- serve my country in her time of need."

The new stripe comes at a perfect time for MANDERS, who was facing retirement.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, August of 2012

Mount Ayr Record-News
Mount Ayr, Ringgold County, Iowa
Thursday, December 22, 2005

When Master Sergeant Charles N. MANDERS Jr. retired at Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi Friday, March 18, his father Charles MANDERS of Ellston attended the ceremony.

Master Sergeant MANDERS retired after more than 20 years of service in the Air Force. Up until the time he retired, he was the NCOIC of Administration and Reports for the 14th Security Forces Squardron, Columbus Air Base, Mississipi. He was responsible for the overall management of the wing's information security, reports and analysis and personnel security sections and conducted research and advised the commander on special projects.

MANDERS enlisted in the Air Force in March 1981 as a law enforcement specialist. Over the years he was promoted, being named a Master Sergeant in October 2001.

During his career he srved at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, and then was overseas in Okinawa, the United Kingdom, and Germany for much of his career. He began his present assignment in February 1999.

At his retirement, he was presented the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, one of the almost 20 medals he has earned during his career.

Captain Shannon G. SMITH, Commander 14th Security Forces Squadron, was presiding officer for the retirement ceremony.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, September of 2012