CHIEF ERIC ADAMS
MILITARY SPOTLIGHT
CHIEF ERIC ADAMS
Chief Eric Adams serves as the Senior Enlisted Leader of the 42d Security Forces Squadron at Maxwell Air Force Base, a role he assumed in July 2024. With a deep sense of duty and pride, Chief Adams leads over 170 personnel, serving as the principal advisor to the Defense Force Commander on matters of welfare, readiness, morale and professional development. His leadership helps ensure that the squadron remains fully mission-ready, providing integrated base defense for both Maxwell AFB and Gunter Annex. Under his guidance, the squadron plays a vital role in safeguarding the personnel, assets and infrastructure that support the installation’ s mission of developing Air Force leaders and advancing education. Chief Adams is honored to serve alongside some of the most dedicated Defenders in the Air Force, committed to protecting those who serve, study and work at the base.
What led you to join the Air Force? Both of my parents are retired Army, so I was always drawn to the structure, sense of purpose and opportunity to serve something greater than myself. My siblings and I grew up watching shows like Tour of Duty and G. I. Joe, and we even played“ Army” around the house. After graduating high school in 1999, I initially attended college with plans to become a lawyer. But at 17, I realized I was following someone else’ s dream— not my own. With my parents’ support, I walked into the recruiter’ s office in Tuscaloosa and chose Security Forces as my career field. I officially joined the Air Force on March 28, 2000.
What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? Without question, it’ s witnessing the growth of our Airmen. Whether it’ s a promotion, completing tough training or stepping into a leadership role for the first time, it’ s incredibly rewarding to see individuals rise to the occasion. Helping them expand their wings of influence is what drives me.
What do you see as the most challenging part of your job? Balancing operational demands with the human element. Our Airmen work long hours under high expectations and in stressful environments. Making sure they stay mentally, emotionally and physically healthy while still meeting mission objectives is always a challenge— but an essential one.
What’ s one thing you wish locals knew about your squadron? We are far more than gate guards. We are a highly trained, professional security force playing a critical role in national defense. Many of our Defenders live and volunteer in this community, and proudly call it home. We’ re your neighbors, as well as your protectors.
Can you share a memorable experience from your career? My first assignment was with the 822d Security Forces Squadron at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia. Our sole focus at home station was training as we deployed together as a unit, conducting force protection and air base defense worldwide. That experience shaped my outlook on teamwork and mission execution, which still influences me today.
How has your military service shaped you personally and professionally? Over the last 25 years, the Air Force has instilled resilience, adaptability and leadership. Personally, it has made me a more compassionate and disciplined individual. Professionally, it’ s given me the opportunity to lead diverse teams, care for others as a First Sergeant and embrace challenges I never imagined possible.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Security Forces? Go for it, but go in informed. It’ s a demanding field, but one filled with purpose and opportunity. Be ready to work hard, stay flexible and always keep learning. Most importantly, remember that you’ re part of something bigger than yourself.
How do you balance military service with family life? I’ m fortunate to have an incredible support system in my wife and two daughters( ages 9 and 11). We’ ve faced every move and deployment together. Communication is essential as we make time to talk daily. My daughters remind me to set boundaries and be present for events that are important. That time is priceless, and it keeps me grounded.
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