WO1 FRANCO LEPARSALAACH
Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Franco Leparsalaach was born on 30th June 1965. He enlisted into the Kenya Defence Forces on 6th June 1985 and began his military journey with Basic Military Training at the Armed Forces Training College (AFTC), now known as the Kenya Military Training Academy.
Following completion of his initial training, he was posted to Laikipia Air Base as an Under Training Technician (U/T Tech). He later joined the Kenya Armed Forces Technical College (KAFTEC), now Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC), where he trained as an Aircraft Technician specializing in Avionics Systems. He was subsequently reclassified as a Radio Technician Class One. In 2009, WO1 Leparsalaach was nominated to attend an F-5 Aircraft Technician Course in Jordan, specializing in the Fighter Jet Head-Up Weapon Aiming Computerized System (HUDWAC).
WO1 Leparsalaach steadily rose through the ranks and, in September 2018, received a field promotion to Warrant Officer Class One after successfully leading a team of technicians tasked with recovering aircraft ground aero test equipment for the servicing of various Kenya Defence Forces aircraft. His technical expertise was instrumental in supporting high-stakes missions through the maintenance and repair of multiple aircraft, thereby ensuring their operational readiness. His contributions significantly enhanced the success of missions both locally and internationally. He also served as a mentor and trainer to junior technicians, promoting a culture of excellence and teamwork.
Throughout his distinguished career in the Kenya Air Force, WO1 Leparsalaach has held several key appointments at the Unit and Wing levels. He served under Logistics Command and as Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) from 2022 to 2023. From 2021 to 2023, he also performed ceremonial duties as the RSM for the Kenya Air Force Guard of Honour. On 23rd March 2023, he was appointed Base Sergeant Major at Moi Air Base a role he executed with diligence and professionalism, earning him the respect of both his peers and superiors.
On 4th March 2025, he was posted to the Kenya Air Force Headquarters and appointed as the Kenya Air Force Sergeant Major (KAFSM), a position he holds to date.
In recognition of his exemplary service, WO1 Franco Leparsalaach has been decorated with several honors and medals, including the Kenya Air Force Distinguished Service Medal for his exceptional contribution to aircraft maintenance and mission readiness, the Long Service and Good Conduct (LSGC) Medal, the 10th and 20th Anniversary Medals of the Nyayo Era, the 25th Anniversary Medal, the Constitution Medal, and the United Nations and Linda Inchi Medals.
WO1 Leparsalaach is married and blessed with six children.