Vandenberg Top 3 gives back to enlisted, community Published Sept. 22, 2009 By Senior Master Sgt. David E. Ovesen Jr. 30th Space Communications Squadron VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Combining knowledge, experience and leadership, the Vandenberg Top 3 is ready to serve Team V's enlisted force. The Vandenberg Top 3, which is comprised of the top tier of the enlisted force, promotes the welfare and recognition of enlisted members. Their primary objective is to enhance the military professionalism, development, and quality of life for all enlisted personnel and their families, while encouraging an attitude of unified purpose. "The organization stays in tune to the needs of the base and community through monthly meetings," said Senior Master Sgt. Jeffrey Shangle, the Top 3 president here. At these meetings, Top 3 members express issues of concern to guest speakers, allowing them to listen and provide feedback. Guest speakers at meetings include the 14th Air Force command chief, 30th Space Wing command chief, the Chief's Group, first sergeants and base program coordinators. The Top 3 supports the enlisted corps by advising these senior leaders on matters pertaining to welfare and morale, promoting and supporting noncommissioned officers' professional military education programs, and providing support to professional, military or social organizations. Besides their support behind the scenes, the Vandenberg Top 3 reaches out to the base and community throughout the year. Among other things, the organization hosts the Senior NCO Induction Ceremony, participates in the Airmen's Appreciation Barbecue, supports local charities and other base organizations, and awards scholarships. "The Top 3 organization is one of the most effective ways to contribute to the morale and welfare of our enlisted corps," Sergeant Shangle said. "The collective knowledge of a network of senior NCOs in a Top 3 organization is a very extensive resource to take care of the needs of the base and local community." Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Pacific Coast Club. Membership dues are $12 per year.