TOP STORY >>Service Before Self

By Lt. Col. Nate “A+12” Allerheiligen
314th Airlift Wing Readiness director

It can be said hundreds of ways: “Service before self,” “Love your neighbor as yourself,” “Help a fellowman” and “It’s amazing what can be done if you don’t care who gets the credit.” The idea is the same – our best work happens when we stop focusing on ourselves and start looking after each other.

Thanksgiving is the traditional start of the winter holiday season. Paired with the many religious holidays, the secular spirit of charity and outreach permeates our culture.

However, in the military, the sentiment runs much deeper than a few gifts or ringing the bell in front of the BX. Daily our fellow Airmen are serving in harms way. I was touched by the story of the elaborate armor cast around the bunk of one of my deployed squadron mates. Even locally, we have several organizations that have to consistently work 12-hour shifts in order to keep the base running.

Operational readiness inspection preparation isn’t an event or a surge – our readiness to execute our mission is built in to every Airmen. Our efforts to do things better aren’t an opportunity to get us accolades. It’s the opposite – we work to help our fellow Airmen, our community and our nation.

For my brethren serving in the combat zone: Well done and our prayers are with you. For those training future combat airlifters: Keep up the Outstanding work. For those supporting behind the scenes: Thank you for your selfless work. We are all better for your service before self.

This year I am most thankful for the sacrifices of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines. How about you?
Combat Airlift!