JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md –
Senior Airman Steven Wirth, 11th Logistic Readiness Squadron Protocol Service vehicle operator, has served his country with the 11th LRS nearing four years. His personal drive to excel in the Air Force garnered him a position providing world-class support for distinguished members of the Air Force, the U.S. government, and dignitaries from all over the world.
Formerly known as the Executive Driver Service, Protocol Service is now operating on the east side of base with the 11th LRS. Even though the seven-member crew is donning a new name and pushing more cost-efficient vehicles, the high-level mission remains unchanged.
"We are responsible for the safe and timely transportation of one to four star generals anywhere throughout the National Capital Region," said Wirth. "We often go to the Pentagon, Capitol Hill and Arlington National Cemetery for full-honors funerals."
Additionally, the members support the assistant vice chief of staff, the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, senior executive staff and civilian counterparts.
The accelerated schedule of events does not stop one Airman from taking a detour down memory lane.
"My first DV run for protocol was for General Welsh," he said. "It was an incredible moment because he coined me and shortly after he became Chief Staff of the Air Force."
Wirth's rare experience can be attributed to his desire to be the best Airmen he can be. Adhering to dress and appearance guidelines as well, as following customs and courtesies at all times, have granted Wirth and members of the select Protocol Service with their unique position.
"We are fortunate to drive individuals with more stars than we have stripes," said Airman 1st Class Gerald Romo, 11th LRS vehicle operator. "You have to be at the top of your game at all times, and keep a level head in the process."
These Airmen have a unique opportunity to get to know General Officers on a personal level while providing world-class support at The Presidential base.
"It's not every day an Airman my rank gets to pick the brains of officers responsible for making Air Force-wide decisions, including leaders of MAJCOM, Air Education and Training, Air Mobility Command," said Romo.
The Airmen said their interaction leads to a juncture where it's okay to voice their perspective to leadership.
"There are times when the officers want to know where you're from, what you do, how do you like your base, and they often ask your opinion on what you think of today's Air Force," said Wirth.
The NCR averages 1,500 requests annually from Air Force District of Washington, said Staff Sgt. Calvin Collosi, 11th LRS protocol dispatcher.
Whether they're supporting a four star conference, the Congressional Delegation of Oklahoma, Navy warfighter talks, or even the Foreign Air Chiefs, this select group of Airmen make a global impact.