COMMENTARY>>What does inspiration look like?

By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing, command chief

There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t witness someone on our team that demonstrates exceptional personal and professional attributes. These people aren’t even difficult to find, they stand out in a crowd. I also believe that without these truly superior role models that we could not function as well as we do. Are you one who inspires others, or are you one who is looking for someone to inspire you?

Inspirational people are looking to make everything they touch better; they have a sense of purpose that is beyond themselves.

You won’t find them complaining about things, because they understand that negative energy takes the life out of an organization. Instead they positively articulate their concerns and continue to drive on to improving their surroundings.

Recently, a few of you have provided me great inspiration. Airman 1st Class Amber Plichta, 19th Mission Support Group, showed me a great deal of dedication and professionalism when I witnessed her perform her duties as a courier. Sherry Leal, 373rd Training Squadron secretary, is the model of efficiency and action, who consistently goes above and beyond to support her leadership in matters of training. Tech. Sgt. Katherine Grabham, 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs, has displayed an energy level that I have not often witnessed in taking care of the personnel in our public affairs office. First Lt. Kristen Torma, 19th Airlift Wing executive has been an advocate for our Airmen on the flight line as a maintenance officer and works demanding yet productive hours as our wing executive. Lt. Col. Jay Osurman, 19th Equipment Maintenance Squadron, demonstrates selfless loyalty to his Airmen and has personally willed his unit to higher success.

You see, inspiration is seen through dedication, action, energy, productivity and loyalty. You must dig deep to inspire, but the results will reproduce through others. So what does inspiration look like, I’d say it looks like you. Now get out there and continue to move the bar higher.

Combat Airlift!