Rodney J. McKinley was the 15th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force who served a total of 30 combined years in the United States Air Force. McKinley represented the highest enlisted level of leadership, and as such, provided direction for the enlisted corps and represents their interests, as appropriate, to the American public, and to those in all levels of government. He served as the personal adviser to the Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale, and proper utilization and progress of the enlisted force. McKinley was the 15th Chief Master Sergeant appointed to the highest non-commissioned officer position.