It's More than a Job: Life and Leadership through the Eyes of a First Sergeant

It's More than a Job: Life and Leadership through the Eyes of a First Sergeant is a rare, one-of-a-kind book that takes the reader on a journey through the peaks and valleys of life as a US Air Force first sergeant. The author provides an emotional, humorous, and selfless look at the sacrifices made by senior enlisted Airmen who wear the coveted "diamond" on their chevrons. Brave, brash, and to the point, the leadership perspectives provided will serve as a guiding light to US Air Force first sergeants and a beacon of understanding to their families. Daryl’s transparency about his devotion to duty, love for aspects of the profession of arms rarely discussed, and how his service to America impacted his family absolutely leaps from the pages. This is a must read for all military leaders, their spouses, and anyone willing to take a ride in the boots of a first sergeant!

Daryl J. Hogan Jr. grew up in the Watts and Lynwood sections of Los Angeles County, California, before enlisting in the US Air Force in 1995. He has an extensive background in firefighting operations having spent sixteen years in fire and emergency services, including four years as a firefighter instructor before becoming a first sergeant in 2012. Defying the odds, he rapidly progressed in his career and was promoted to the rank of chief master sergeant. In accomplishing that milestone, Daryl entered the top enlisted rank in the US Air Force held by only 1 percent of its enlisted members. Over the course of a twenty-two-year career, Daryl has obtained five college degrees, including three Community College of the Air Force associate's degrees, a bachelor's degree in fire science, and a master's degree in organizational leadership, both from Columbia Southern University. He has also been awarded several military honors, including six Meritorious Service Medals and multiple First Sergeant of the Year awards.