By Maj. Sean Robertson
314th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander
Last Thursday we celebrated a big event: the selection of the Air Force’s newest staff sergeants. While the pay is nice and the extra stripe looks good on the uniform, there is one thing even more important: the latest selects will become the next generation of front line supervisors and noncommissioned officers.
For a commander, this is a huge event. The noncommissioned officer is where a majority of the critical tasks of a squadron get done. This is where primary training happens, discipline and personnel issues get nipped in the bud and where the general tone of the squadron is set.
Here are some big-ticket items I think are truly important to front line supervisors and ultimately the success of the mission and the squadron. Those items are: know your people, hold the line and have a positive mental attitude.
As a supervisor, you need to know your Airmen. This is critical. You’re typically the first individual to see Airmen when they get to work and generally, you are the last to see them as they step out for a long weekend. NCOs are my greatest asset.
They are the ones to look those Airmen in the eye and make sure everything is fine. If things aren’t right, they are the one that can nudge them in the right direction whether it be to the first sergeant, Family Advocacy, or maybe just some “been there, done that” mentoring. Knowing your people is more than knowing their favorite sports team or color. Is the Airman married?
Any hobbies? How’s training progressing? Where were they born and raised?
Those are the things that will drive people’s hearts and minds. The better you understand them, and they understand that you care about them as a person, the more apt you are to connect and have a positive impact on that individual.
As is any NCO’s duty, holding the line and maintaining standards is one of the most important. It’s a responsibility that will most often fall on you first because you are typically the first to encounter the discrepancies or issues. You are also the most visible because you are almost always amongst Airmen. Whether you believe it or not they look up to you, if for no other reason than you were most recently sitting in their shoes.
Maintaining standards such as passing physical fitness test and wearing the uniform correctly is just beginning. Living up to the Air Force core values should not and is not anything new for our newest NCOs. However, holding individuals accountable may be one of the most difficult things you do, possibly because the person you are correcting today was your best-friend the week before. While maintaining the standards may sometimes be difficult it must be done. There must be a separation between duty and personal life. As an NCO, the responsibility falls on you to step in and ensure that you represent and maintain the standard you have sworn to uphold. If you know you’re Airmen and fairly and consistently hold the line the last focus area is positive mental attitude.
Having a PMA is contagious. As an athlete growing up PMA sounds a little bit “cheerleady” to me – nothing against cheerleaders, I married one – but I can’t think of any other words to describe it. It is this type of mentality that drives the words of our Airman’s Creed: “I will not falter, and I will not fail.” As a supervisor your attitude, demeanor and how you react to different situations will drive how your airmen react. Be mindful that they are always watching whether you want them to or not. As a commander, I need you to be the energy that drives the squadron.
The daunting task of becoming an NCO may not appear as exciting as the pay raise and the new stripes first look, but understand that this responsibility has been levied on you because you can do it. There is nothing more satisfying in this world than to teach the folks coming up behind you to replace you. To the newest frontline supervisors, if you focus on your Airmen, hold the line, and provide a positive mental attitude, the journey will be a great one.
Congratulations to our newest staff sergeants.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
COMMENTARY>>Attitude – it really is everything
By Chief Master Sgt. Matthew Gibson
19th Mission Support Group superintendent
Ever wondered why some people are more successful than others? Maybe you’ve noticed some people handle stress or overcome challenges easier than the rest of us?
While there may be many reasons, one key ingredient you will find in almost all successful people is a positive attitude. I’ve read successful people view failure as learning opportunities and setbacks as challenges.
I believe this is true.
Being positive has benefits far beyond just being a success on the job. Having a positive attitude is critical when things get tough in our personal lives. It is easy to keep a good attitude when things are going your way, but it is much more difficult when faced with adversity.
I recently visited the Center for the Intrepid at Brook Army Medical Center in San Antonio and witnessed the power of positive attitude first hand.
Some of our most severely wounded warriors go through rehabilitation therapy at the CFI. I met patients who had sustained life-changing injuries including amputations and severe burns. The majority of these warriors were horribly injured and I cannot begin to understand the physical and psychological challenges they face.
What I can say is during the five weeks I was there almost every new patient arrived with a relentless will to recover. I saw them fight through pain during grueling physical therapy, heard them talk of lost comrades while referring to themselves as the lucky ones, and quite often I’d see them laugh or smile in spite of their hardships. Each patient was dealing with loss most of us cannot imagine, but they were succeeding in their recovery, largely because of their attitudes. They are truly heroes to me and I learned a valuable lesson from them.
The lesson is your attitude is critical to overcoming challenges. So the next time you face a challenge in your professional or personal life, think about your attitude and make adjustments when necessary. It will help keep things in perspective and may be the difference between success and failure.
19th Mission Support Group superintendent
Ever wondered why some people are more successful than others? Maybe you’ve noticed some people handle stress or overcome challenges easier than the rest of us?
While there may be many reasons, one key ingredient you will find in almost all successful people is a positive attitude. I’ve read successful people view failure as learning opportunities and setbacks as challenges.
I believe this is true.
Being positive has benefits far beyond just being a success on the job. Having a positive attitude is critical when things get tough in our personal lives. It is easy to keep a good attitude when things are going your way, but it is much more difficult when faced with adversity.
I recently visited the Center for the Intrepid at Brook Army Medical Center in San Antonio and witnessed the power of positive attitude first hand.
Some of our most severely wounded warriors go through rehabilitation therapy at the CFI. I met patients who had sustained life-changing injuries including amputations and severe burns. The majority of these warriors were horribly injured and I cannot begin to understand the physical and psychological challenges they face.
What I can say is during the five weeks I was there almost every new patient arrived with a relentless will to recover. I saw them fight through pain during grueling physical therapy, heard them talk of lost comrades while referring to themselves as the lucky ones, and quite often I’d see them laugh or smile in spite of their hardships. Each patient was dealing with loss most of us cannot imagine, but they were succeeding in their recovery, largely because of their attitudes. They are truly heroes to me and I learned a valuable lesson from them.
The lesson is your attitude is critical to overcoming challenges. So the next time you face a challenge in your professional or personal life, think about your attitude and make adjustments when necessary. It will help keep things in perspective and may be the difference between success and failure.
COMMENTARY>>Women’s Equality Day
By Tony Wyatt
19th Airlift Wing equal opportunity director
Since the conception and establishment of our great nation, the people of the United States have diligently worked to make equality for everyone a literal reality for all its citizens.
On Aug. 26, 1920, we moved a step closer to achieving the full purpose of our nation’s Constitution when Congress passed its 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. Every year we celebrate passage of the amendment and the extraordinary accomplishments of women in America.
Today, women are exercising the right to vote in greater numbers than men, especially in presidential elections. This stands to reason when you consider the significant roles presidents played in America achieving equality milestones for women.
Women’s unselfish service to the military played an equally important role in achieving voting rights. In fact, the involvement and actions of women in World War I provided President Woodrow Wilson a central theme and proof to support his argument for women’s suffrage. With our commanders in chief leading the way, Women’s Equality Day has always been a particularly special day of celebration in the Department of Defense.
Women have always played a critical role in the defense and development of our nation. On September 30, 1918, President Wilson addressed the U.S. Senate concerning women’s suffrage by stating, “…I tell you plainly that this measure which I urge upon you is vital to the winning of the war …We have made partners of the women in this war. Shall we admit them only to a partnership of suffering and sacrifice and toil and not to a partnership of right?”
With the first World War waning and democracy emerging as the clear victor, President Wilson wanted to secure America’s place as a leader in the free world. He was concerned about our global image and believed the status of women’s suffrage reflected poorly on the United States. By 1918, 17 other countries were providing full voting rights to women.
President Wilson knew women’s suffrage had to become a reality in America. Emphasizing the importance of such a reality, he further stated to the Senate, “They (other countries) are looking to the great, powerful, famous Democracy of the West to lead them …democracy means that women shall play their part in affairs alongside men and upon an equal footing with them.” Two years after Wilson’s presentation to the Senate, women’s suffrage became a reality in America, changing and opening doors to a historical first as never before.
Change began to come about more quickly once women received the right to vote. In 1920, Ohio voters elected Florence Ellinwood Allen as the first female judge in our nation’s history. In 1924, Texas elected Hallie Ferguson as the nation’s first female governor, and in 1932 Hattie Wyatt Caraway, an Arkansan, became the first female elected to the U.S. Senate. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women surpassed men as registered voters in 1980 and have voted at higher rates than men in every presidential election since. The gap between women and men voting has grown slightly larger with each successive election.
Interestingly, women also first graduated from our nation’s service academies in 1980 after President Gerald Ford signed Public Law 94-106 in 1976. Votes in the House and Senate had previously set the course for women to enroll in the academies starting in 1976, underscoring the power, significance and importance of voting rights for all Americans. Not long after the 1980 academies’ graduations, President Ronald Reagan appointed the first female U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor.
Today, President Barack Obama has appointed Sonia Maria Sotomayor as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, the third woman to assume such a position. In Congress, Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi is the first woman to become Speaker of the House, one of the most powerful political positions in our government; second in line to succession of the president. In DoD’s, 2008 annual demographic report indicate 41 women were serving on active duty in the grades of brigadier to lieutenant general, a sharp increase since the 1980 service academies graduations. We have come a long way.
We have achieved a lot since August 26, 1920, and there is still much work to be done regarding women’s rights. There is no doubt that but for women’s suffrage, along with the leadership and perseverance of our commanders in chief, women’s equality would not be as much of a reality as it is today. Let’s celebrate today while continuing to work toward “…a more perfect Union.”
19th Airlift Wing equal opportunity director
Since the conception and establishment of our great nation, the people of the United States have diligently worked to make equality for everyone a literal reality for all its citizens.
On Aug. 26, 1920, we moved a step closer to achieving the full purpose of our nation’s Constitution when Congress passed its 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. Every year we celebrate passage of the amendment and the extraordinary accomplishments of women in America.
Today, women are exercising the right to vote in greater numbers than men, especially in presidential elections. This stands to reason when you consider the significant roles presidents played in America achieving equality milestones for women.
Women’s unselfish service to the military played an equally important role in achieving voting rights. In fact, the involvement and actions of women in World War I provided President Woodrow Wilson a central theme and proof to support his argument for women’s suffrage. With our commanders in chief leading the way, Women’s Equality Day has always been a particularly special day of celebration in the Department of Defense.
Women have always played a critical role in the defense and development of our nation. On September 30, 1918, President Wilson addressed the U.S. Senate concerning women’s suffrage by stating, “…I tell you plainly that this measure which I urge upon you is vital to the winning of the war …We have made partners of the women in this war. Shall we admit them only to a partnership of suffering and sacrifice and toil and not to a partnership of right?”
With the first World War waning and democracy emerging as the clear victor, President Wilson wanted to secure America’s place as a leader in the free world. He was concerned about our global image and believed the status of women’s suffrage reflected poorly on the United States. By 1918, 17 other countries were providing full voting rights to women.
President Wilson knew women’s suffrage had to become a reality in America. Emphasizing the importance of such a reality, he further stated to the Senate, “They (other countries) are looking to the great, powerful, famous Democracy of the West to lead them …democracy means that women shall play their part in affairs alongside men and upon an equal footing with them.” Two years after Wilson’s presentation to the Senate, women’s suffrage became a reality in America, changing and opening doors to a historical first as never before.
Change began to come about more quickly once women received the right to vote. In 1920, Ohio voters elected Florence Ellinwood Allen as the first female judge in our nation’s history. In 1924, Texas elected Hallie Ferguson as the nation’s first female governor, and in 1932 Hattie Wyatt Caraway, an Arkansan, became the first female elected to the U.S. Senate. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women surpassed men as registered voters in 1980 and have voted at higher rates than men in every presidential election since. The gap between women and men voting has grown slightly larger with each successive election.
Interestingly, women also first graduated from our nation’s service academies in 1980 after President Gerald Ford signed Public Law 94-106 in 1976. Votes in the House and Senate had previously set the course for women to enroll in the academies starting in 1976, underscoring the power, significance and importance of voting rights for all Americans. Not long after the 1980 academies’ graduations, President Ronald Reagan appointed the first female U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor.
Today, President Barack Obama has appointed Sonia Maria Sotomayor as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, the third woman to assume such a position. In Congress, Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi is the first woman to become Speaker of the House, one of the most powerful political positions in our government; second in line to succession of the president. In DoD’s, 2008 annual demographic report indicate 41 women were serving on active duty in the grades of brigadier to lieutenant general, a sharp increase since the 1980 service academies graduations. We have come a long way.
We have achieved a lot since August 26, 1920, and there is still much work to be done regarding women’s rights. There is no doubt that but for women’s suffrage, along with the leadership and perseverance of our commanders in chief, women’s equality would not be as much of a reality as it is today. Let’s celebrate today while continuing to work toward “…a more perfect Union.”
COMMENTARY>>Women’s Equality Day
By Tony Wyatt
19th Airlift Wing equal opportunity director
Since the conception and establishment of our great nation, the people of the United States have diligently worked to make equality for everyone a literal reality for all its citizens.
On Aug. 26, 1920, we moved a step closer to achieving the full purpose of our nation’s Constitution when Congress passed its 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. Every year we celebrate passage of the amendment and the extraordinary accomplishments of women in America.
Today, women are exercising the right to vote in greater numbers than men, especially in presidential elections. This stands to reason when you consider the significant roles presidents played in America achieving equality milestones for women.
Women’s unselfish service to the military played an equally important role in achieving voting rights. In fact, the involvement and actions of women in World War I provided President Woodrow Wilson a central theme and proof to support his argument for women’s suffrage. With our commanders in chief leading the way, Women’s Equality Day has always been a particularly special day of celebration in the Department of Defense.
Women have always played a critical role in the defense and development of our nation. On September 30, 1918, President Wilson addressed the U.S. Senate concerning women’s suffrage by stating, “…I tell you plainly that this measure which I urge upon you is vital to the winning of the war …We have made partners of the women in this war. Shall we admit them only to a partnership of suffering and sacrifice and toil and not to a partnership of right?”
With the first World War waning and democracy emerging as the clear victor, President Wilson wanted to secure America’s place as a leader in the free world. He was concerned about our global image and believed the status of women’s suffrage reflected poorly on the United States. By 1918, 17 other countries were providing full voting rights to women.
President Wilson knew women’s suffrage had to become a reality in America. Emphasizing the importance of such a reality, he further stated to the Senate, “They (other countries) are looking to the great, powerful, famous Democracy of the West to lead them …democracy means that women shall play their part in affairs alongside men and upon an equal footing with them.” Two years after Wilson’s presentation to the Senate, women’s suffrage became a reality in America, changing and opening doors to a historical first as never before.
Change began to come about more quickly once women received the right to vote. In 1920, Ohio voters elected Florence Ellinwood Allen as the first female judge in our nation’s history. In 1924, Texas elected Hallie Ferguson as the nation’s first female governor, and in 1932 Hattie Wyatt Caraway, an Arkansan, became the first female elected to the U.S. Senate. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women surpassed men as registered voters in 1980 and have voted at higher rates than men in every presidential election since. The gap between women and men voting has grown slightly larger with each successive election.
Interestingly, women also first graduated from our nation’s service academies in 1980 after President Gerald Ford signed Public Law 94-106 in 1976. Votes in the House and Senate had previously set the course for women to enroll in the academies starting in 1976, underscoring the power, significance and importance of voting rights for all Americans. Not long after the 1980 academies’ graduations, President Ronald Reagan appointed the first female U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor.
Today, President Barack Obama has appointed Sonia Maria Sotomayor as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, the third woman to assume such a position. In Congress, Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi is the first woman to become Speaker of the House, one of the most powerful political positions in our government; second in line to succession of the president. In DoD’s, 2008 annual demographic report indicate 41 women were serving on active duty in the grades of brigadier to lieutenant general, a sharp increase since the 1980 service academies graduations. We have come a long way.
We have achieved a lot since August 26, 1920, and there is still much work to be done regarding women’s rights. There is no doubt that but for women’s suffrage, along with the leadership and perseverance of our commanders in chief, women’s equality would not be as much of a reality as it is today. Let’s celebrate today while continuing to work toward “…a more perfect Union.”
19th Airlift Wing equal opportunity director
Since the conception and establishment of our great nation, the people of the United States have diligently worked to make equality for everyone a literal reality for all its citizens.
On Aug. 26, 1920, we moved a step closer to achieving the full purpose of our nation’s Constitution when Congress passed its 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. Every year we celebrate passage of the amendment and the extraordinary accomplishments of women in America.
Today, women are exercising the right to vote in greater numbers than men, especially in presidential elections. This stands to reason when you consider the significant roles presidents played in America achieving equality milestones for women.
Women’s unselfish service to the military played an equally important role in achieving voting rights. In fact, the involvement and actions of women in World War I provided President Woodrow Wilson a central theme and proof to support his argument for women’s suffrage. With our commanders in chief leading the way, Women’s Equality Day has always been a particularly special day of celebration in the Department of Defense.
Women have always played a critical role in the defense and development of our nation. On September 30, 1918, President Wilson addressed the U.S. Senate concerning women’s suffrage by stating, “…I tell you plainly that this measure which I urge upon you is vital to the winning of the war …We have made partners of the women in this war. Shall we admit them only to a partnership of suffering and sacrifice and toil and not to a partnership of right?”
With the first World War waning and democracy emerging as the clear victor, President Wilson wanted to secure America’s place as a leader in the free world. He was concerned about our global image and believed the status of women’s suffrage reflected poorly on the United States. By 1918, 17 other countries were providing full voting rights to women.
President Wilson knew women’s suffrage had to become a reality in America. Emphasizing the importance of such a reality, he further stated to the Senate, “They (other countries) are looking to the great, powerful, famous Democracy of the West to lead them …democracy means that women shall play their part in affairs alongside men and upon an equal footing with them.” Two years after Wilson’s presentation to the Senate, women’s suffrage became a reality in America, changing and opening doors to a historical first as never before.
Change began to come about more quickly once women received the right to vote. In 1920, Ohio voters elected Florence Ellinwood Allen as the first female judge in our nation’s history. In 1924, Texas elected Hallie Ferguson as the nation’s first female governor, and in 1932 Hattie Wyatt Caraway, an Arkansan, became the first female elected to the U.S. Senate. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women surpassed men as registered voters in 1980 and have voted at higher rates than men in every presidential election since. The gap between women and men voting has grown slightly larger with each successive election.
Interestingly, women also first graduated from our nation’s service academies in 1980 after President Gerald Ford signed Public Law 94-106 in 1976. Votes in the House and Senate had previously set the course for women to enroll in the academies starting in 1976, underscoring the power, significance and importance of voting rights for all Americans. Not long after the 1980 academies’ graduations, President Ronald Reagan appointed the first female U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor.
Today, President Barack Obama has appointed Sonia Maria Sotomayor as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, the third woman to assume such a position. In Congress, Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi is the first woman to become Speaker of the House, one of the most powerful political positions in our government; second in line to succession of the president. In DoD’s, 2008 annual demographic report indicate 41 women were serving on active duty in the grades of brigadier to lieutenant general, a sharp increase since the 1980 service academies graduations. We have come a long way.
We have achieved a lot since August 26, 1920, and there is still much work to be done regarding women’s rights. There is no doubt that but for women’s suffrage, along with the leadership and perseverance of our commanders in chief, women’s equality would not be as much of a reality as it is today. Let’s celebrate today while continuing to work toward “…a more perfect Union.”
COMMENTARY>>Honoring a legacy of valor
By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing command chief
On Sept. 18 we will have a POW/MIA remembrance ceremony on base. This will give us an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s true heroes.
The true character of a country is displayed in how they honor those that stood and stand in defense of its citizens. All of us are the recipients of freedom due to the few who willingly defended the many.
This week I’d like to focus on ways each of us can pay the proper respect to our dedicated warriors. For those of us in uniform, the Airman’s Creed puts our expected conduct into the proper perspective. The reference to being faithful to a proud heritage is a clear mandate for us to continue to move forward as seasoned professionals in defense of our country. Each day we put on our uniforms, we are being measured against the standards our forerunners set for us. Their records are clearly and prominently established, while ours are still being developed. My hope is we never lose sight of the foundation set for us.
For those who are not wearing the uniform, I encourage you to become aware of the missions and challenges our military face.
When the opportunity presents itself, extending gestures of gratitude to our active-duty, Reserve, National Guard and retired members can go a long way. Each one of our service members sacrifice because they value our way of life and although not required, appreciate a word of thanks when you see them.
September 18 will be an important day on our base because we all get to say thank you to an ever-shrinking national treasure: we will be hosting several living ex-POWs. No matter what your political views are, our men and women fought and died for your right to live your life the way you currently do. So let’s do all we can to honor them daily.
Combat Airlift!
19th Airlift Wing command chief
On Sept. 18 we will have a POW/MIA remembrance ceremony on base. This will give us an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s true heroes.
The true character of a country is displayed in how they honor those that stood and stand in defense of its citizens. All of us are the recipients of freedom due to the few who willingly defended the many.
This week I’d like to focus on ways each of us can pay the proper respect to our dedicated warriors. For those of us in uniform, the Airman’s Creed puts our expected conduct into the proper perspective. The reference to being faithful to a proud heritage is a clear mandate for us to continue to move forward as seasoned professionals in defense of our country. Each day we put on our uniforms, we are being measured against the standards our forerunners set for us. Their records are clearly and prominently established, while ours are still being developed. My hope is we never lose sight of the foundation set for us.
For those who are not wearing the uniform, I encourage you to become aware of the missions and challenges our military face.
When the opportunity presents itself, extending gestures of gratitude to our active-duty, Reserve, National Guard and retired members can go a long way. Each one of our service members sacrifice because they value our way of life and although not required, appreciate a word of thanks when you see them.
September 18 will be an important day on our base because we all get to say thank you to an ever-shrinking national treasure: we will be hosting several living ex-POWs. No matter what your political views are, our men and women fought and died for your right to live your life the way you currently do. So let’s do all we can to honor them daily.
Combat Airlift!
COMMENTARY>>Airmen work hard to defend freedom
By Gen. Arthur J. Lichte
Air Mobility Command commander
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. – As I visit with people at bases throughout Air Mobility Command and our operations across the globe, one thing I always admire is the strong spirit of our Airmen and civilians who keep the mobility mission moving day in and day out.
We have an extremely important mission in AMC, supporting our Nation at home and abroad while operating in harm’s way and providing humanitarian relief. This equates to more than 900 sorties flown each day by aircrews on mobility aircraft and the great ground support that enables the air mobility mission. In order to achieve these incredible accomplishments, it takes the extraordinary efforts of our people including active duty, reserve, and guard Airmen as well as civilians employees. We simply would not be successful without each and every one of you – it’s a Total Force team effort.
Labor Day recognizes the contribution workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our great country. It’s true of our Airmen, civilians, and their families as well. The success of the world’s best Air Force is carried on by their dedication and hard work -- I am extremely honored to serve with you.
This Labor Day Weekend, we’ll celebrate some well deserved time off to enjoy with family and friends. However, I don’t want you to forget the importance of keeping safety as your top priority.
Whether it’s during the Critical Days of Summer or any other time throughout the year, we must ensure safety is at the forefront of our decision-making process, both on and off duty. Please use operational risk management for all your activities.
Calculating the risk and weighing your options is the safest way to complete whatever you are doing. Please don’t forget the importance of reminding each other to wear seatbelts, follow checklists, and do other important things to stay safe.
The Lichte family would like to thank you and your family for your service and sacrifice. Enjoy your Labor Day weekend – you’ve earned it. However, don’t forget to make safety your number one priority, every day, both on and off duty. Also take time this Labor Day to remember those who are deployed around the world protecting our freedom. Your enthusiasm, spirit, hard work, and dedication make me proud to be the Commander of Air Mobility Command!
Air Mobility Command commander
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. – As I visit with people at bases throughout Air Mobility Command and our operations across the globe, one thing I always admire is the strong spirit of our Airmen and civilians who keep the mobility mission moving day in and day out.
We have an extremely important mission in AMC, supporting our Nation at home and abroad while operating in harm’s way and providing humanitarian relief. This equates to more than 900 sorties flown each day by aircrews on mobility aircraft and the great ground support that enables the air mobility mission. In order to achieve these incredible accomplishments, it takes the extraordinary efforts of our people including active duty, reserve, and guard Airmen as well as civilians employees. We simply would not be successful without each and every one of you – it’s a Total Force team effort.
Labor Day recognizes the contribution workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our great country. It’s true of our Airmen, civilians, and their families as well. The success of the world’s best Air Force is carried on by their dedication and hard work -- I am extremely honored to serve with you.
This Labor Day Weekend, we’ll celebrate some well deserved time off to enjoy with family and friends. However, I don’t want you to forget the importance of keeping safety as your top priority.
Whether it’s during the Critical Days of Summer or any other time throughout the year, we must ensure safety is at the forefront of our decision-making process, both on and off duty. Please use operational risk management for all your activities.
Calculating the risk and weighing your options is the safest way to complete whatever you are doing. Please don’t forget the importance of reminding each other to wear seatbelts, follow checklists, and do other important things to stay safe.
The Lichte family would like to thank you and your family for your service and sacrifice. Enjoy your Labor Day weekend – you’ve earned it. However, don’t forget to make safety your number one priority, every day, both on and off duty. Also take time this Labor Day to remember those who are deployed around the world protecting our freedom. Your enthusiasm, spirit, hard work, and dedication make me proud to be the Commander of Air Mobility Command!
TOP STORY > >Here comes the BOOM
By Bob Oldham
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
While Little Rock Air Force Base sits on a majority of the old Arkansas Ordnance Plant, only about 40 Airmen on base today can say their current job has a direct link to the past, where the plant is said to have built around 85 percent of the fuses and detonators used by the U.S. military during World War II.
Situated on a remote parcel of 85 acres on the east side of the base, the 40 members of the 19th Equipment Maintenance Squadron’s munitions flight support Combat Airlifters on a daily basis, issuing rifle and pistol rounds for Airmen to fire during qualification training or storing plastic explosives for the explosive ordnance disposal shop until a threat needs to be neutralized.
With more than 1,000 line items housed in the MSA, they track their $2.6 million inventory online, said Master Sgt. Brian Horsnby, 19 EMS munitions accountable systems officer. Using a Web-based tracking system allows higher headquarters to see how many and where items are stored on any given day.
The flight is divided into five sections: storage, conventional maintenance/trailer maintenance, control, inspection and munitions operations.
The storage section ensures each item is stored properly and doesn’t exceed a storage facilities’ net explosive weight. The section oversees numerous above-ground storage magazines as well as a few earth-covered facilities, commonly called igloos.
The combined maintenance sections oversee the trailers the flight uses to transport their stocks. They build the hot-burning countermeasures used on C-130s to defeat enemy threats.
The munitions operations section manages asset accountability. The control section serves as the command-and-control function, overseeing the movement of line items on base and the movements of Airmen within the MSA, Sergeant Horsnby said.
Some months business is booming both literally and figuratively. For example, last April the flight issued 34,000 frangible M-16 training rounds for Airmen to fire through their rifles to qualify. A frangible round is one that, when fired, disintegrates on impact with anything solid.
Other months, such as last March, no M-16 training rounds were issued. But with more than 1,000 line items, Airmen are always receiving in or issuing out stocked items.
In some cases, an item might exceed its shelf life, requiring base agencies to turn in an outdated item to be re-issued a newer item.
Arkansas’ unpredictable weather can bring the entire operation to a halt, however. Lightning, once it’s within a few nautical miles, is a safety hazard, not only for the Airmen but the items in their care.
While dodging stormy weather patterns poses its own battles, the flight also faces another battle – a battle against items they don’t stock.
“The hardest challenge for us is to try to get [the young Airmen] trained on as many different items as possible,” Master Sgt. Robert Baillargeon, the flight’s chief said.
The career field as a whole handles air-to-air missiles and all types of bombs Airmen here don’t get a chance to work around because C-130s aren’t armed with such items.
When opportunities arise, such as exercises or deployments, there’s a good chance a young Airman from Little Rock will be there, because they know they have a big impact on the Air Force – and the enemy.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
While Little Rock Air Force Base sits on a majority of the old Arkansas Ordnance Plant, only about 40 Airmen on base today can say their current job has a direct link to the past, where the plant is said to have built around 85 percent of the fuses and detonators used by the U.S. military during World War II.
Situated on a remote parcel of 85 acres on the east side of the base, the 40 members of the 19th Equipment Maintenance Squadron’s munitions flight support Combat Airlifters on a daily basis, issuing rifle and pistol rounds for Airmen to fire during qualification training or storing plastic explosives for the explosive ordnance disposal shop until a threat needs to be neutralized.
With more than 1,000 line items housed in the MSA, they track their $2.6 million inventory online, said Master Sgt. Brian Horsnby, 19 EMS munitions accountable systems officer. Using a Web-based tracking system allows higher headquarters to see how many and where items are stored on any given day.
The flight is divided into five sections: storage, conventional maintenance/trailer maintenance, control, inspection and munitions operations.
The storage section ensures each item is stored properly and doesn’t exceed a storage facilities’ net explosive weight. The section oversees numerous above-ground storage magazines as well as a few earth-covered facilities, commonly called igloos.
The combined maintenance sections oversee the trailers the flight uses to transport their stocks. They build the hot-burning countermeasures used on C-130s to defeat enemy threats.
The munitions operations section manages asset accountability. The control section serves as the command-and-control function, overseeing the movement of line items on base and the movements of Airmen within the MSA, Sergeant Horsnby said.
Some months business is booming both literally and figuratively. For example, last April the flight issued 34,000 frangible M-16 training rounds for Airmen to fire through their rifles to qualify. A frangible round is one that, when fired, disintegrates on impact with anything solid.
Other months, such as last March, no M-16 training rounds were issued. But with more than 1,000 line items, Airmen are always receiving in or issuing out stocked items.
In some cases, an item might exceed its shelf life, requiring base agencies to turn in an outdated item to be re-issued a newer item.
Arkansas’ unpredictable weather can bring the entire operation to a halt, however. Lightning, once it’s within a few nautical miles, is a safety hazard, not only for the Airmen but the items in their care.
While dodging stormy weather patterns poses its own battles, the flight also faces another battle – a battle against items they don’t stock.
“The hardest challenge for us is to try to get [the young Airmen] trained on as many different items as possible,” Master Sgt. Robert Baillargeon, the flight’s chief said.
The career field as a whole handles air-to-air missiles and all types of bombs Airmen here don’t get a chance to work around because C-130s aren’t armed with such items.
When opportunities arise, such as exercises or deployments, there’s a good chance a young Airman from Little Rock will be there, because they know they have a big impact on the Air Force – and the enemy.
TOP STORY > >34 CTS offers unique warfare training
By Capt. Joe Knable
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
If you stumbled upon a man wearing a Muslim headdress, an Iraqi security police colonel and military officers from three coalition countries, you might think you’re somewhere in the Middle East.
However, this scene was part of Irregular Warfare training at Little Rock Air Force Base this week as part of the Green Flag Little Rock exercise. Green Flag Little Rock is held in conjunction with the Joint Readiness Training Center exercise based at Fort Polk, La., which is training 5,000 Soldiers “deployed” to an austere environment at Fort Polk. The Air Force is providing airlift and airdrop capabilities, aeromedical evacuation and bare-base set up and operations for the JRTC exercise.
The goal of Green Flag Little Rock is for aircrews to fly their first five simulated combat missions in a safe environment,” said Maj. Earl Burress, 34th Combat Training Squadron trainer/mentor in charge of irregular warfare training at Green Flag Little Rock. The irregular warfare exercises are part of the rigorous training the Air Force members receive to prepare them for theater operations.
Irregular warfare is “a violent struggle among state and non-state actors for legitimacy and influence over the relevant population(s). IW favors indirect and asymmetric approaches, though it may employ the full range of military and other capacities, in order to erode an adversary’s power, influence, and will,” according to the U.S. Air Force Irregular Warfare Operating Concept, Dec. 1, 2008.
In this Green Flag Little Rock exercise, aircrews from the U.S., Canada and Belgium are participating in a series of IW scenarios. While the players know there will be IW training at some point during the exercise, they do not know when it will be, what it will be or who will be participating. Just like in real-world deployments, they must be ready at all times, said Major Burress.
This week at Green Flag Little Rock, Department of Defense security and intelligence agents dressed up as Iraqi nationals and engaged coalition players in a variety of IW scenarios.
On the first day, agents posed as a local sheikh, his security police colonel and a U.S. escort. The agents met with members of all four coalition teams, including the Air Force aeromedical evacuation team, to discuss a variety of topics ranging from military assistance, humanitarian aid, political sentiments and religious affiliation. Players were challenged to maintain their military bearing with many personal and controversial questions and statements including a marriage proposal directed at the female Canadian mission commander. The players focused on remaining professional, warm and diplomatic in their responses while gathering intelligence that might be useful to the coalition.
After the 45-minute meeting, Air Force intelligence trainer/mentors discussed what the players did well and what they might want to do differently “in country.” The meeting was purposely long with uncomfortable pauses because the culture in Iraq is so different. Such a meeting could last six hours, one trainer/mentor explained.
This first meeting was intended to illustrate “wasta,” a key concept in Iraq that translates roughly to the concepts of strength, honor and trust. “Building relationships is the bull’s-eye” for meetings with Iraqi nationals, said Major Burress. Once they build wasta, the Iraqi nationals will provide invaluable help.
In the second encounter, the son of the sheikh was very angry because of what he described as an “immoral use of technology,” Major Burress said. Players had to overcome a simulated language barrier to discover the true issue. The son was told the pilots were using night vision goggles to see through local women’s clothing. Once players understood this, they brought a pair of night vision goggles in for the sheikh’s son to look through and he discovered for himself that the allegation was not true since night vision goggles have no such capability.
The third IW exercise was the shortest of all. The U.S. agent rapped frantically on the door until players answered. He said the sheikh had something urgent to show the players and they needed to send their mission commander right away.
The team assembled quickly and uncovered a significant cache of weapons the Iraqis had discovered. The most important thing discovered were man-portable air-defense systems which could destroy the coalition airplanes and foil their mission. The mission commander thanked the sheikh with a cash gratuity and asked that he please let them know when he finds anything else.
This training is very unique for U.S. Airmen.
“Green Flag Little Rock is the first and only exercise in the USAF that provides Irregular Warfare training that is tailored specifically to prepare American and Coalition Mobility Air Forces personnel (at the squadron level) for deployments to austere locations,” said Major Burress. He explained that successful training would result in “participants who understand that their actions influence the local population and therefore the war on the strategic level, they have increased skills in relating to Muslim and Middle Eastern cultures and they are actively influencing the battlespace in a positive way.”
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
If you stumbled upon a man wearing a Muslim headdress, an Iraqi security police colonel and military officers from three coalition countries, you might think you’re somewhere in the Middle East.
However, this scene was part of Irregular Warfare training at Little Rock Air Force Base this week as part of the Green Flag Little Rock exercise. Green Flag Little Rock is held in conjunction with the Joint Readiness Training Center exercise based at Fort Polk, La., which is training 5,000 Soldiers “deployed” to an austere environment at Fort Polk. The Air Force is providing airlift and airdrop capabilities, aeromedical evacuation and bare-base set up and operations for the JRTC exercise.
The goal of Green Flag Little Rock is for aircrews to fly their first five simulated combat missions in a safe environment,” said Maj. Earl Burress, 34th Combat Training Squadron trainer/mentor in charge of irregular warfare training at Green Flag Little Rock. The irregular warfare exercises are part of the rigorous training the Air Force members receive to prepare them for theater operations.
Irregular warfare is “a violent struggle among state and non-state actors for legitimacy and influence over the relevant population(s). IW favors indirect and asymmetric approaches, though it may employ the full range of military and other capacities, in order to erode an adversary’s power, influence, and will,” according to the U.S. Air Force Irregular Warfare Operating Concept, Dec. 1, 2008.
In this Green Flag Little Rock exercise, aircrews from the U.S., Canada and Belgium are participating in a series of IW scenarios. While the players know there will be IW training at some point during the exercise, they do not know when it will be, what it will be or who will be participating. Just like in real-world deployments, they must be ready at all times, said Major Burress.
This week at Green Flag Little Rock, Department of Defense security and intelligence agents dressed up as Iraqi nationals and engaged coalition players in a variety of IW scenarios.
On the first day, agents posed as a local sheikh, his security police colonel and a U.S. escort. The agents met with members of all four coalition teams, including the Air Force aeromedical evacuation team, to discuss a variety of topics ranging from military assistance, humanitarian aid, political sentiments and religious affiliation. Players were challenged to maintain their military bearing with many personal and controversial questions and statements including a marriage proposal directed at the female Canadian mission commander. The players focused on remaining professional, warm and diplomatic in their responses while gathering intelligence that might be useful to the coalition.
After the 45-minute meeting, Air Force intelligence trainer/mentors discussed what the players did well and what they might want to do differently “in country.” The meeting was purposely long with uncomfortable pauses because the culture in Iraq is so different. Such a meeting could last six hours, one trainer/mentor explained.
This first meeting was intended to illustrate “wasta,” a key concept in Iraq that translates roughly to the concepts of strength, honor and trust. “Building relationships is the bull’s-eye” for meetings with Iraqi nationals, said Major Burress. Once they build wasta, the Iraqi nationals will provide invaluable help.
In the second encounter, the son of the sheikh was very angry because of what he described as an “immoral use of technology,” Major Burress said. Players had to overcome a simulated language barrier to discover the true issue. The son was told the pilots were using night vision goggles to see through local women’s clothing. Once players understood this, they brought a pair of night vision goggles in for the sheikh’s son to look through and he discovered for himself that the allegation was not true since night vision goggles have no such capability.
The third IW exercise was the shortest of all. The U.S. agent rapped frantically on the door until players answered. He said the sheikh had something urgent to show the players and they needed to send their mission commander right away.
The team assembled quickly and uncovered a significant cache of weapons the Iraqis had discovered. The most important thing discovered were man-portable air-defense systems which could destroy the coalition airplanes and foil their mission. The mission commander thanked the sheikh with a cash gratuity and asked that he please let them know when he finds anything else.
This training is very unique for U.S. Airmen.
“Green Flag Little Rock is the first and only exercise in the USAF that provides Irregular Warfare training that is tailored specifically to prepare American and Coalition Mobility Air Forces personnel (at the squadron level) for deployments to austere locations,” said Major Burress. He explained that successful training would result in “participants who understand that their actions influence the local population and therefore the war on the strategic level, they have increased skills in relating to Muslim and Middle Eastern cultures and they are actively influencing the battlespace in a positive way.”
Thursday, August 20, 2009
COMMENTARY>>The real measure of success
By Maj. Julie Gaulin
314th Operations Group
How do you measure success within your own career?
I have attended several retirement ceremonies over the last few months and as I sat in the audience during each of them, I saw one recurring theme. Those who chose to honor our great nation with their service didn’t focus on the rank they had acquired, the medals they had earned or the accolades they had received. They all focused on one thing: the people who had touched them throughout their career.
This is the legacy that lives beyond us … who have our mentors been and who have we been a mentor to?
In the 314th Airlift Wing, we have a unique opportunity to touch the future of our Air Force and the future of our nation. We are the mentors for Airmen of all ranks and we must not squander this opportunity.
While we’re all professionals who take our teaching role very seriously, we must take it beyond the aircraft. We see more than 1,800 students per year come through our various courses. Success shouldn’t be measured by our on-time graduation rate, the score on their end-of-course test or even the grade received on their check ride. Success is the impact we make on Airmen which will last them the rest of their life.
We must never forget we are all Airmen, Wingmen, leaders and warriors. No matter your rank or your job, you have the chance to be a mentor. Take the time to take younger Airmen under your wing. Only then will you truly be successful.
My measure of success is simple: how did I positively affect an Airman today? How about you?
314th Operations Group
How do you measure success within your own career?
I have attended several retirement ceremonies over the last few months and as I sat in the audience during each of them, I saw one recurring theme. Those who chose to honor our great nation with their service didn’t focus on the rank they had acquired, the medals they had earned or the accolades they had received. They all focused on one thing: the people who had touched them throughout their career.
This is the legacy that lives beyond us … who have our mentors been and who have we been a mentor to?
In the 314th Airlift Wing, we have a unique opportunity to touch the future of our Air Force and the future of our nation. We are the mentors for Airmen of all ranks and we must not squander this opportunity.
While we’re all professionals who take our teaching role very seriously, we must take it beyond the aircraft. We see more than 1,800 students per year come through our various courses. Success shouldn’t be measured by our on-time graduation rate, the score on their end-of-course test or even the grade received on their check ride. Success is the impact we make on Airmen which will last them the rest of their life.
We must never forget we are all Airmen, Wingmen, leaders and warriors. No matter your rank or your job, you have the chance to be a mentor. Take the time to take younger Airmen under your wing. Only then will you truly be successful.
My measure of success is simple: how did I positively affect an Airman today? How about you?
COMMENTARY>>The real measure of success
By Maj. Julie Gaulin
314th Operations Group
How do you measure success within your own career?
I have attended several retirement ceremonies over the last few months and as I sat in the audience during each of them, I saw one recurring theme. Those who chose to honor our great nation with their service didn’t focus on the rank they had acquired, the medals they had earned or the accolades they had received. They all focused on one thing: the people who had touched them throughout their career.
This is the legacy that lives beyond us … who have our mentors been and who have we been a mentor to?
In the 314th Airlift Wing, we have a unique opportunity to touch the future of our Air Force and the future of our nation. We are the mentors for Airmen of all ranks and we must not squander this opportunity.
While we’re all professionals who take our teaching role very seriously, we must take it beyond the aircraft. We see more than 1,800 students per year come through our various courses. Success shouldn’t be measured by our on-time graduation rate, the score on their end-of-course test or even the grade received on their check ride. Success is the impact we make on Airmen which will last them the rest of their life.
We must never forget we are all Airmen, Wingmen, leaders and warriors. No matter your rank or your job, you have the chance to be a mentor. Take the time to take younger Airmen under your wing. Only then will you truly be successful.
My measure of success is simple: how did I positively affect an Airman today? How about you?
314th Operations Group
How do you measure success within your own career?
I have attended several retirement ceremonies over the last few months and as I sat in the audience during each of them, I saw one recurring theme. Those who chose to honor our great nation with their service didn’t focus on the rank they had acquired, the medals they had earned or the accolades they had received. They all focused on one thing: the people who had touched them throughout their career.
This is the legacy that lives beyond us … who have our mentors been and who have we been a mentor to?
In the 314th Airlift Wing, we have a unique opportunity to touch the future of our Air Force and the future of our nation. We are the mentors for Airmen of all ranks and we must not squander this opportunity.
While we’re all professionals who take our teaching role very seriously, we must take it beyond the aircraft. We see more than 1,800 students per year come through our various courses. Success shouldn’t be measured by our on-time graduation rate, the score on their end-of-course test or even the grade received on their check ride. Success is the impact we make on Airmen which will last them the rest of their life.
We must never forget we are all Airmen, Wingmen, leaders and warriors. No matter your rank or your job, you have the chance to be a mentor. Take the time to take younger Airmen under your wing. Only then will you truly be successful.
My measure of success is simple: how did I positively affect an Airman today? How about you?
COMMENTARY>>AMC commander receives Order of the Sword
By Capt. Bob Everdeen
Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
Arriving at the Scott Club in a horse-drawn carriage while a bagpipe melody filled the air, Air Mobility Command Commander Gen. Arthur J. Lichte and his wife Chris were about to become a part of military history.
The carriage ride, which arrived under security forces escort, was just the start of a rich military tradition where the enlisted men and women of Air Mobility Command bestowed the high honor of Order of the Sword to General Lichte on Aug. 14.
The event, which draws its customs from a Middle Ages ceremony, recognized General Lichte for his leadership at AMC since his arrival here nearly two years ago.
It was a ceremony that saw enlisted Airmen donning full mess dress to honor their leader in the finest of traditions.
AMC Command Chief Master Sgt. Joe Barron notified General Lichte of the nomination in April.
As chairman of the Order of the Sword committee, Chief Barron said the primary reason the General was chosen for the award is because he is a “leader among leaders and an Airman among Airmen.”
“I cannot think of a leader more deserving of this recognition,” Chief Barron said.
General Lichte said he didn’t learn or build his Air Force career just from professional military education or books, he said he learned from the enlisted core.
“(Learning) happens when the chief comes in and closes the door and tells me what needs to be done,” General Lichte said.
“It’swhen NCOs shoulder the load of the Air Force and when I look into the eyes of Airmen and see the pulse of the U.S. Air Force.”
General Lichte cited many examples of enlisted leadership and the inspiration and education it has provided him.
He said it was an Air Force sergeant who encouraged him to join the Air Force. He also highlighted an Airman who was a boom operator and refueled the planes with enthusiasm during his early days at Plattsburgh AFB, NY; and he singled-out an NCO from Maintenance who worked on those aircraft throughout the night showing tremendous dedication and professionalism.
“When I was the vice commander for the United States Air Forces in Europe, every other country wanted to be like the United States Air Force,” General Lichte said. “They wanted to come and train with us. They wanted to come to our professional military education…they wanted a professional enlisted corps.
“I learned that lesson again just a few weeks ago at RODEO when I met the Afghanistan Air Force Chief of Staff,” General Lichte added. “He was not impressed by the aircraft, tactics or techniques, but the Airmen. It is this fantastic force that gives us a competitive military advantage.”
The competitive advantage of any military, General Lichte said, has always been and always will be the enlisted force.
“There is no doubt about it, you -- our enlisted force – are the greatest asymmetrical advantage we could possibly have,” he said. “That’s not just for our Air Force, but for our nation.”
General Lichte was honored with several mementos depicting a sword -- the symbol of truth, justice and power rightfully used – during the Order of the Sword ceremony. The ceremony has evolved since its first rituals in the early 1500s when it was known as the (British) Royal Order of the Sword and the Swedish Military Order of the Sword.
In all cases, the reason for the program is the same: for enlisted military people to honor and recognize individuals they hold in high esteem who have made significant contributions to the enlisted force.
In his closing remarks, General Lichte said he won’t forget the Airmen of AMC and the Air Force for all of their contributions.
“As you live out your Air Force careers, do so in knowing that the world is watching you, our nation is watching you, and I will still be watching you,” he said. “You are fantastic people.”
Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
Arriving at the Scott Club in a horse-drawn carriage while a bagpipe melody filled the air, Air Mobility Command Commander Gen. Arthur J. Lichte and his wife Chris were about to become a part of military history.
The carriage ride, which arrived under security forces escort, was just the start of a rich military tradition where the enlisted men and women of Air Mobility Command bestowed the high honor of Order of the Sword to General Lichte on Aug. 14.
The event, which draws its customs from a Middle Ages ceremony, recognized General Lichte for his leadership at AMC since his arrival here nearly two years ago.
It was a ceremony that saw enlisted Airmen donning full mess dress to honor their leader in the finest of traditions.
AMC Command Chief Master Sgt. Joe Barron notified General Lichte of the nomination in April.
As chairman of the Order of the Sword committee, Chief Barron said the primary reason the General was chosen for the award is because he is a “leader among leaders and an Airman among Airmen.”
“I cannot think of a leader more deserving of this recognition,” Chief Barron said.
General Lichte said he didn’t learn or build his Air Force career just from professional military education or books, he said he learned from the enlisted core.
“(Learning) happens when the chief comes in and closes the door and tells me what needs to be done,” General Lichte said.
“It’swhen NCOs shoulder the load of the Air Force and when I look into the eyes of Airmen and see the pulse of the U.S. Air Force.”
General Lichte cited many examples of enlisted leadership and the inspiration and education it has provided him.
He said it was an Air Force sergeant who encouraged him to join the Air Force. He also highlighted an Airman who was a boom operator and refueled the planes with enthusiasm during his early days at Plattsburgh AFB, NY; and he singled-out an NCO from Maintenance who worked on those aircraft throughout the night showing tremendous dedication and professionalism.
“When I was the vice commander for the United States Air Forces in Europe, every other country wanted to be like the United States Air Force,” General Lichte said. “They wanted to come and train with us. They wanted to come to our professional military education…they wanted a professional enlisted corps.
“I learned that lesson again just a few weeks ago at RODEO when I met the Afghanistan Air Force Chief of Staff,” General Lichte added. “He was not impressed by the aircraft, tactics or techniques, but the Airmen. It is this fantastic force that gives us a competitive military advantage.”
The competitive advantage of any military, General Lichte said, has always been and always will be the enlisted force.
“There is no doubt about it, you -- our enlisted force – are the greatest asymmetrical advantage we could possibly have,” he said. “That’s not just for our Air Force, but for our nation.”
General Lichte was honored with several mementos depicting a sword -- the symbol of truth, justice and power rightfully used – during the Order of the Sword ceremony. The ceremony has evolved since its first rituals in the early 1500s when it was known as the (British) Royal Order of the Sword and the Swedish Military Order of the Sword.
In all cases, the reason for the program is the same: for enlisted military people to honor and recognize individuals they hold in high esteem who have made significant contributions to the enlisted force.
In his closing remarks, General Lichte said he won’t forget the Airmen of AMC and the Air Force for all of their contributions.
“As you live out your Air Force careers, do so in knowing that the world is watching you, our nation is watching you, and I will still be watching you,” he said. “You are fantastic people.”
COMMENTARY>>Little Rock, your home away from home
By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing command chief
This week, I sat down with about 30 of our newest Airmen assigned to our installation in hopes of helping their transition be a smooth one.
If you look at things that create stress in life, moving is near the top of the list. There are many things connected with a change of location, such as finding your way around or even establishing positive connections within the community.
The point is we want every person who comes here to know we appreciate their contribution to our team and we start that out with a proper welcome.
I can reflect back to my first assignment in the Philippines. I was given the key to a dorm room and left there alone for my first weekend. I had no idea what the base had to offer or even how to navigate myself around the enormous base. My first impression of my unit was not a good one.
What are you doing to welcome our new people and their families to our base?
Just think about the things you needed when you arrived here. Now think about how you can help those who arrive after you integrate into our base and community.
Part of having a “people always” focus means we lean forward in our efforts to take care of one another. Something as simple as having a note from the commander, first sergeant and other key leaders can make a huge impact to someone coming to
Team Little Rock. For example every chief who arrives on this base gets a food basket for them and their family.
One of the most important functions of a unit is to have a viable sponsor program. So for those of you who have the privilege of being a sponsor, please take it seriously. We want each person to know that even though they may not be at their place of birth, Little Rock AFB is their “home away from home.”
Combat Airlift!
19th Airlift Wing command chief
This week, I sat down with about 30 of our newest Airmen assigned to our installation in hopes of helping their transition be a smooth one.
If you look at things that create stress in life, moving is near the top of the list. There are many things connected with a change of location, such as finding your way around or even establishing positive connections within the community.
The point is we want every person who comes here to know we appreciate their contribution to our team and we start that out with a proper welcome.
I can reflect back to my first assignment in the Philippines. I was given the key to a dorm room and left there alone for my first weekend. I had no idea what the base had to offer or even how to navigate myself around the enormous base. My first impression of my unit was not a good one.
What are you doing to welcome our new people and their families to our base?
Just think about the things you needed when you arrived here. Now think about how you can help those who arrive after you integrate into our base and community.
Part of having a “people always” focus means we lean forward in our efforts to take care of one another. Something as simple as having a note from the commander, first sergeant and other key leaders can make a huge impact to someone coming to
Team Little Rock. For example every chief who arrives on this base gets a food basket for them and their family.
One of the most important functions of a unit is to have a viable sponsor program. So for those of you who have the privilege of being a sponsor, please take it seriously. We want each person to know that even though they may not be at their place of birth, Little Rock AFB is their “home away from home.”
Combat Airlift!
TOP STORY > >DAF Officers provide continuity at home
By Ashley Mangin
Special to the Combat Airlifter
Security Forces is one of the most frequently deployed squadrons in the Air Force. The mission benefits, but it leaves a hole in the law enforcement at the home station.
The Air Force is taking measures to provide more continuity at home with Department of the Air Force Police.
The DAF Police is a non-deployable group of highly trained civilian personnel. Little Rock Air Force Base currently has three DAF officers with hopes of having a force of 24 in the near future.
“This has been in the works for a while,” said Capt. Robert Shaw Jr., 19th Security Forces Squadron operations officer. “The DAF officers help out the active-duty officers and help with some of our manning issues.”
The 19th SFS has had DAF officers assigned for a year and it has been an extremely successful program, said Captain Shaw.
“It’s been very successful,” Captain Shaw said. “It gives us a lot of flexibility. They can work on the flightline, on patrol, at the gate or on a desk. Basically any job the active-duty guys do, they can do also.”
When choosing DAF officers, the Air Force looks at applicants with prior law enforcement or military experience. The officers are trained at the Department of Veterans Affairs Law Enforcement Training Center in Little Rock and at the security forces squadron.
Officer Willie Thomas has been a DAF officer at Little Rock AFB since October 2008. He served in the Army for 23 years and was an Arkansas police officer before becoming a DAF officer.
Officer Thomas has explored many aspects of the job but says patrolling is his favorite.
“I’ve been at the desk, on the flightline, on patrol, monitoring alarms, basically everything the active-duty guys do,” Officer Thomas said. “But my favorite is patrolling … not just writing tickets, but helping people, letting them know that we’re out there for them.”
The first thing people look for when Officer Thomas approaches them is his rank and he thinks the DAF officers’ lack of “rank” can help make people a little less uncomfortable.
“I think we get a little more respect than the active-duty officers because we don’t have rank (insignia),” said Officer Thomas.
“No one is worried about our rank or what theirs is. It simplifies things.”
Officer Thomas has seen the impact he and the other DAF officers have made and looks forward to a complete force of officers whose only objective is to keep LRAFB safe.
“I look forward to when there are more of us and we can make more of a difference,” Officer Thomas said.
Special to the Combat Airlifter
Security Forces is one of the most frequently deployed squadrons in the Air Force. The mission benefits, but it leaves a hole in the law enforcement at the home station.
The Air Force is taking measures to provide more continuity at home with Department of the Air Force Police.
The DAF Police is a non-deployable group of highly trained civilian personnel. Little Rock Air Force Base currently has three DAF officers with hopes of having a force of 24 in the near future.
“This has been in the works for a while,” said Capt. Robert Shaw Jr., 19th Security Forces Squadron operations officer. “The DAF officers help out the active-duty officers and help with some of our manning issues.”
The 19th SFS has had DAF officers assigned for a year and it has been an extremely successful program, said Captain Shaw.
“It’s been very successful,” Captain Shaw said. “It gives us a lot of flexibility. They can work on the flightline, on patrol, at the gate or on a desk. Basically any job the active-duty guys do, they can do also.”
When choosing DAF officers, the Air Force looks at applicants with prior law enforcement or military experience. The officers are trained at the Department of Veterans Affairs Law Enforcement Training Center in Little Rock and at the security forces squadron.
Officer Willie Thomas has been a DAF officer at Little Rock AFB since October 2008. He served in the Army for 23 years and was an Arkansas police officer before becoming a DAF officer.
Officer Thomas has explored many aspects of the job but says patrolling is his favorite.
“I’ve been at the desk, on the flightline, on patrol, monitoring alarms, basically everything the active-duty guys do,” Officer Thomas said. “But my favorite is patrolling … not just writing tickets, but helping people, letting them know that we’re out there for them.”
The first thing people look for when Officer Thomas approaches them is his rank and he thinks the DAF officers’ lack of “rank” can help make people a little less uncomfortable.
“I think we get a little more respect than the active-duty officers because we don’t have rank (insignia),” said Officer Thomas.
“No one is worried about our rank or what theirs is. It simplifies things.”
Officer Thomas has seen the impact he and the other DAF officers have made and looks forward to a complete force of officers whose only objective is to keep LRAFB safe.
“I look forward to when there are more of us and we can make more of a difference,” Officer Thomas said.
TOP STORY > >DAF Officers provide continuity at home
By Ashley Mangin
Special to the Combat Airlifter
Security Forces is one of the most frequently deployed squadrons in the Air Force. The mission benefits, but it leaves a hole in the law enforcement at the home station.
The Air Force is taking measures to provide more continuity at home with Department of the Air Force Police.
The DAF Police is a non-deployable group of highly trained civilian personnel. Little Rock Air Force Base currently has three DAF officers with hopes of having a force of 24 in the near future.
“This has been in the works for a while,” said Capt. Robert Shaw Jr., 19th Security Forces Squadron operations officer. “The DAF officers help out the active-duty officers and help with some of our manning issues.”
The 19th SFS has had DAF officers assigned for a year and it has been an extremely successful program, said Captain Shaw.
“It’s been very successful,” Captain Shaw said. “It gives us a lot of flexibility. They can work on the flightline, on patrol, at the gate or on a desk. Basically any job the active-duty guys do, they can do also.”
When choosing DAF officers, the Air Force looks at applicants with prior law enforcement or military experience. The officers are trained at the Department of Veterans Affairs Law Enforcement Training Center in Little Rock and at the security forces squadron.
Officer Willie Thomas has been a DAF officer at Little Rock AFB since October 2008. He served in the Army for 23 years and was an Arkansas police officer before becoming a DAF officer.
Officer Thomas has explored many aspects of the job but says patrolling is his favorite.
“I’ve been at the desk, on the flightline, on patrol, monitoring alarms, basically everything the active-duty guys do,” Officer Thomas said. “But my favorite is patrolling … not just writing tickets, but helping people, letting them know that we’re out there for them.”
The first thing people look for when Officer Thomas approaches them is his rank and he thinks the DAF officers’ lack of “rank” can help make people a little less uncomfortable.
“I think we get a little more respect than the active-duty officers because we don’t have rank (insignia),” said Officer Thomas.
“No one is worried about our rank or what theirs is. It simplifies things.”
Officer Thomas has seen the impact he and the other DAF officers have made and looks forward to a complete force of officers whose only objective is to keep LRAFB safe.
“I look forward to when there are more of us and we can make more of a difference,” Officer Thomas said.
Special to the Combat Airlifter
Security Forces is one of the most frequently deployed squadrons in the Air Force. The mission benefits, but it leaves a hole in the law enforcement at the home station.
The Air Force is taking measures to provide more continuity at home with Department of the Air Force Police.
The DAF Police is a non-deployable group of highly trained civilian personnel. Little Rock Air Force Base currently has three DAF officers with hopes of having a force of 24 in the near future.
“This has been in the works for a while,” said Capt. Robert Shaw Jr., 19th Security Forces Squadron operations officer. “The DAF officers help out the active-duty officers and help with some of our manning issues.”
The 19th SFS has had DAF officers assigned for a year and it has been an extremely successful program, said Captain Shaw.
“It’s been very successful,” Captain Shaw said. “It gives us a lot of flexibility. They can work on the flightline, on patrol, at the gate or on a desk. Basically any job the active-duty guys do, they can do also.”
When choosing DAF officers, the Air Force looks at applicants with prior law enforcement or military experience. The officers are trained at the Department of Veterans Affairs Law Enforcement Training Center in Little Rock and at the security forces squadron.
Officer Willie Thomas has been a DAF officer at Little Rock AFB since October 2008. He served in the Army for 23 years and was an Arkansas police officer before becoming a DAF officer.
Officer Thomas has explored many aspects of the job but says patrolling is his favorite.
“I’ve been at the desk, on the flightline, on patrol, monitoring alarms, basically everything the active-duty guys do,” Officer Thomas said. “But my favorite is patrolling … not just writing tickets, but helping people, letting them know that we’re out there for them.”
The first thing people look for when Officer Thomas approaches them is his rank and he thinks the DAF officers’ lack of “rank” can help make people a little less uncomfortable.
“I think we get a little more respect than the active-duty officers because we don’t have rank (insignia),” said Officer Thomas.
“No one is worried about our rank or what theirs is. It simplifies things.”
Officer Thomas has seen the impact he and the other DAF officers have made and looks forward to a complete force of officers whose only objective is to keep LRAFB safe.
“I look forward to when there are more of us and we can make more of a difference,” Officer Thomas said.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
COMMENTARY>>Airmen of character don’t believe their own hype
By Chief Master Sgt. Richard Turcotte
314th Airlift Wing command chief
As we gear up for our Senior Noncommissioned Officer Enhancement Seminar I’m excited for our recent master sergeant selectees. It seems so long ago that I too accepted the responsibility of a senior NCO – the excitement of a new set of stripes, the opportunity to assume more challenging and demanding roles, the opportunity to lead and influence others. I could go on and on about the vital roles of professional senior NCOs. However, none of them are as important as being an Airman of character.
I began to reflect on my senior NCO induction and even pulled my certificate off the wall and actually read it. I was somewhat surprised at what was written and how I felt about it. I couldn’t make it past the second paragraph without some consternation. It states, “It is now required that you be the font of wisdom.” I am here to tell you, looking back a decade, Master Sgt. Turcotte was far from being the font of wisdom. Even today, I still make mistakes and fall short of expectations I set for myself.
With curiosity I read on. In the next paragraph it states, “I have entered an elite and exclusive society.” Nothing could be farther from the truth. We are neither elite nor exclusive. In fact, that is the most wonderful thing about our promotion system: anyone, from any background, race, creed, color or gender who meets Air Force standards and achieves a sufficient WAPS score can be a senior NCO. Our Air Force is inclusive, not exclusive. Our diversity is our biggest strength and the envy of the free world.
My certificate goes on to state, “You have mastered the techniques and abilities required of a Senior Noncommissioned Officer.” That statement couldn’t be farther from the truth as I would later find out through my own experiences, the Senior NCO Academy, and the Chief Leadership Course. Even in my current position as a command chief I have come to realize I only know what I know and that learning never stops. The point to take from this as senior NCOs is we have not arrived. We aren’t at the finish line. Each and every one of us must continue to grow through our experience and commitment to personal and professional growth as leaders.
I would be remiss if I only pointed out what we aren’t and not share what I believe to be some truths. We are Airmen of character. From the moment we entered the gateway to the Air Force we have been taught to live by a certain values system.
That system, of course, is reflected in our Air Force Core Values of “Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do.”
As Airmen, we are taught to trust sound leadership and become good followers. As NCO’s we developed our technical expertise and our communication skills. As senior NCOs we are asked to develop the professional Airmen and leaders that will one day replace us while continuing our own professional development in order to support the mission.
So how do we do that?
The answer is simple: you are already doing it. The main reason for your promotion to master sergeant wasn’t because you tested well but because you performed with excellence, you led with integrity and placed service before self. As each of you participate in next week’s seminar I ask you reflect on some of the areas that enabled your success to this point and identify areas that foster additional growth. As leaders we must ensure the professional development of all Airmen and must be cautious of titles and rites of passage that detract from our role as professional Airmen.
But most of all, Airmen of character don’t believe their own hype.
314th Airlift Wing command chief
As we gear up for our Senior Noncommissioned Officer Enhancement Seminar I’m excited for our recent master sergeant selectees. It seems so long ago that I too accepted the responsibility of a senior NCO – the excitement of a new set of stripes, the opportunity to assume more challenging and demanding roles, the opportunity to lead and influence others. I could go on and on about the vital roles of professional senior NCOs. However, none of them are as important as being an Airman of character.
I began to reflect on my senior NCO induction and even pulled my certificate off the wall and actually read it. I was somewhat surprised at what was written and how I felt about it. I couldn’t make it past the second paragraph without some consternation. It states, “It is now required that you be the font of wisdom.” I am here to tell you, looking back a decade, Master Sgt. Turcotte was far from being the font of wisdom. Even today, I still make mistakes and fall short of expectations I set for myself.
With curiosity I read on. In the next paragraph it states, “I have entered an elite and exclusive society.” Nothing could be farther from the truth. We are neither elite nor exclusive. In fact, that is the most wonderful thing about our promotion system: anyone, from any background, race, creed, color or gender who meets Air Force standards and achieves a sufficient WAPS score can be a senior NCO. Our Air Force is inclusive, not exclusive. Our diversity is our biggest strength and the envy of the free world.
My certificate goes on to state, “You have mastered the techniques and abilities required of a Senior Noncommissioned Officer.” That statement couldn’t be farther from the truth as I would later find out through my own experiences, the Senior NCO Academy, and the Chief Leadership Course. Even in my current position as a command chief I have come to realize I only know what I know and that learning never stops. The point to take from this as senior NCOs is we have not arrived. We aren’t at the finish line. Each and every one of us must continue to grow through our experience and commitment to personal and professional growth as leaders.
I would be remiss if I only pointed out what we aren’t and not share what I believe to be some truths. We are Airmen of character. From the moment we entered the gateway to the Air Force we have been taught to live by a certain values system.
That system, of course, is reflected in our Air Force Core Values of “Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do.”
As Airmen, we are taught to trust sound leadership and become good followers. As NCO’s we developed our technical expertise and our communication skills. As senior NCOs we are asked to develop the professional Airmen and leaders that will one day replace us while continuing our own professional development in order to support the mission.
So how do we do that?
The answer is simple: you are already doing it. The main reason for your promotion to master sergeant wasn’t because you tested well but because you performed with excellence, you led with integrity and placed service before self. As each of you participate in next week’s seminar I ask you reflect on some of the areas that enabled your success to this point and identify areas that foster additional growth. As leaders we must ensure the professional development of all Airmen and must be cautious of titles and rites of passage that detract from our role as professional Airmen.
But most of all, Airmen of character don’t believe their own hype.
COMMENTARY>>AFOSI solicits help to end fraud
Most members associated with the Air Force have heard the phrase “Fraud, waste and abuse,” but how many people can actually identify fraudulent activities when they occur?
Little Rock Air Force Base’s Air Force Office of Special Investigations is working to educate Combat Airlifters, contractors and their families about different fraudulent activities which may occur here.
Fraud takes on many forms. The first is obtaining money or some other benefit by deliberate deception. Another example may be identity theft, money laundering, embezzlement or submitting false documentation.
Officials at AFOSI’s Det. 327 say fraud is something everyone should be on the lookout for.
There are many conditions which would make a person, a unit or the Air Force susceptible to fraudulent activities. One concern is the concentration of authority or responsibility on one particular person for an entire process.
A good example is a government purchase cardholder also being the approving and billing official for a unit.
Other concerns are inadequate feedback on results of operations; the lack of independent verification of the accuracy of records, transactions and reports; vague and confusing procedures and standards; or the inability to determine who is responsible for an area or job.
Other items to look out for are lack of adequate supervision or oversight; unrealistic budgetary or acquisition requirements; inadequate physical safeguards over resources; failure to strictly enforce contract provisions or the failure to correct deficiencies identified by an existing system.
These are all general ideas of areas considered at risk of fraudulent activities. Anyone employed by or doing business with Little Rock AFB is encouraged to do their part in protecting the Air Force’s money and resources. Anyone seeing these types of activities is encouraged to contact AFOSI’s Det. 327 with any information of possible fraudulent activity.
Reporting can be done in person at Bldg. 670, across from Burger King. Anonymous reporting is possible by sending a text message from any cellular phone to AFOSI at (501)779-0043. E-mail reporting is possible at AFOSI.Det327.office@ogn.af.mil.
Special agents at Det. 327 are also available to address questions and concerns by calling 987-6116.
(Courtesy of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 327)
Little Rock Air Force Base’s Air Force Office of Special Investigations is working to educate Combat Airlifters, contractors and their families about different fraudulent activities which may occur here.
Fraud takes on many forms. The first is obtaining money or some other benefit by deliberate deception. Another example may be identity theft, money laundering, embezzlement or submitting false documentation.
Officials at AFOSI’s Det. 327 say fraud is something everyone should be on the lookout for.
There are many conditions which would make a person, a unit or the Air Force susceptible to fraudulent activities. One concern is the concentration of authority or responsibility on one particular person for an entire process.
A good example is a government purchase cardholder also being the approving and billing official for a unit.
Other concerns are inadequate feedback on results of operations; the lack of independent verification of the accuracy of records, transactions and reports; vague and confusing procedures and standards; or the inability to determine who is responsible for an area or job.
Other items to look out for are lack of adequate supervision or oversight; unrealistic budgetary or acquisition requirements; inadequate physical safeguards over resources; failure to strictly enforce contract provisions or the failure to correct deficiencies identified by an existing system.
These are all general ideas of areas considered at risk of fraudulent activities. Anyone employed by or doing business with Little Rock AFB is encouraged to do their part in protecting the Air Force’s money and resources. Anyone seeing these types of activities is encouraged to contact AFOSI’s Det. 327 with any information of possible fraudulent activity.
Reporting can be done in person at Bldg. 670, across from Burger King. Anonymous reporting is possible by sending a text message from any cellular phone to AFOSI at (501)779-0043. E-mail reporting is possible at AFOSI.Det327.office@ogn.af.mil.
Special agents at Det. 327 are also available to address questions and concerns by calling 987-6116.
(Courtesy of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 327)
COMMENTARY>>Domestic violence affects us all
By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing command chief
I bet if I asked each of you, you’d be able to tell me of someone you know who was either a perpetrator or a victim of domestic violence. Yet, many instances of abuse go unnoticed and unreported. If we are going to continue to be a community that takes care of one another, then we must not sweep sensitive issues under the rug, but face them head on.
Domestic violence does not discriminate. It touches every sector of our society, affecting us all in an adverse way. In many families, domestic violence is that dirty little secret no one talks about. Well, today I want to talk about it, but more than that, I want to encourage each person involved in this dangerous situation to do all you can to seek the assistance needed.
I’ve heard it said anger is just a step away from danger. The only difference in the spelling is one letter. So, for those who have issues with anger, do you know what pushes you over the edge? How can people hurt people they say they care for? These questions and many more can be answered if those involved in these situations seek help.
My hope is this article will cause some rational discussions on how to avoid future issues of physical, mental or emotional abuse. As Americans, we are one family standing on the noble principles and we can never forget the enemy should never be within our homes or community.
So if you are an abuser, get help. If you are being abused, get help. Whether it’s in the community or even on base, we have people who will help you navigate through these challenges. Don’t let your anger turn into danger and never forget each day is a new opportunity to move in a positive direction.
Combat Airlift!
19th Airlift Wing command chief
I bet if I asked each of you, you’d be able to tell me of someone you know who was either a perpetrator or a victim of domestic violence. Yet, many instances of abuse go unnoticed and unreported. If we are going to continue to be a community that takes care of one another, then we must not sweep sensitive issues under the rug, but face them head on.
Domestic violence does not discriminate. It touches every sector of our society, affecting us all in an adverse way. In many families, domestic violence is that dirty little secret no one talks about. Well, today I want to talk about it, but more than that, I want to encourage each person involved in this dangerous situation to do all you can to seek the assistance needed.
I’ve heard it said anger is just a step away from danger. The only difference in the spelling is one letter. So, for those who have issues with anger, do you know what pushes you over the edge? How can people hurt people they say they care for? These questions and many more can be answered if those involved in these situations seek help.
My hope is this article will cause some rational discussions on how to avoid future issues of physical, mental or emotional abuse. As Americans, we are one family standing on the noble principles and we can never forget the enemy should never be within our homes or community.
So if you are an abuser, get help. If you are being abused, get help. Whether it’s in the community or even on base, we have people who will help you navigate through these challenges. Don’t let your anger turn into danger and never forget each day is a new opportunity to move in a positive direction.
Combat Airlift!
TOP STORY > >Keeping eyes and ears open
Story and photos by Senior Airman Steele Britton
376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
TRANSIT CENTER AT MANAS, Kyrgyzstan – A professional attitude and clear mindset are essential traits of any security forces personnel stationed here at the Transit Center at Manas, Kyrgyzstan.
Members of the 376th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron ensure all Airmen at Manas are in safe hands while stationed here.
The mission of the squadron is to secure, protect, and defend coalition weapons systems, air base assets, personnel, and resources assigned to the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing.
The men and women of the 376th ESFS know when an individual enters the base until they exit; whether a few hours or several months have passed.
“We process over 700 people a day to include more than 75 vehicles. We have a lot of Kyrgyz employees who come to prepare meals, help clean the base, and that work closely with military members. We must ensure all are properly identified,” says Staff Sgt. Christopher McCauley, 376th ESFS visitor control center journeyman deployed from the Arkansas Air National Guard’s 189th Airlift Wing SFS at Little Rock Air Force Base.
The defenders at the visitor control center, here, are charged with searching vehicles, persons, and all belongings before being cleared to enter. They use a unique biometric identification technology that is used at Manas to account for any person entering and exiting the base. The system helps ensure 100 percent accountability at all times.
Other members of the team who play a vital role in the mission are the military working dogs. Military Working Dog Handler Staff Sgt. Teri Messina, deployed from the 30th SFS at Vandenberg, Calif., patrols the base with her dog, Rico, “we are in charge of conducting vehicle, aircraft, and border sweeps here at Manas. We also train the local Kyrgyz State Security Service K-9 team which entails standard training as well as explosive searches.”
Another aspect of security forces is flightline and entry control point security operations.
“When you’re working control points and flightline patrol, you’re constantly in the mindset of waiting for anything to happen,” says Airman 1st Class William Gault, also deployed from the 189th. “Staying vigilant is key,” he added.
The recent change of Manas to a Transit Center has had a positive effect to security operations.
Maj. Todd Stuff, 376th ESFS commander, who commands the personnel representing the Air National Guard, active duty, and Northrop Grumman contractors here explains, “Although changes are in the planning stages, the opportunity to work with the Kyrgyz Ministry of Defense is a positive step in strengthening military interactions with our host country.”
Major Stuff has been deployed to the Transit Center at Manas for five months and plans to return home soon, “Deploying with units from six different states and territories provides an added benefit by forming lasting relationships and networks. My fond memories of working in the Kyrgyz Republic will always be with me throughout my career.”
376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
TRANSIT CENTER AT MANAS, Kyrgyzstan – A professional attitude and clear mindset are essential traits of any security forces personnel stationed here at the Transit Center at Manas, Kyrgyzstan.
Members of the 376th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron ensure all Airmen at Manas are in safe hands while stationed here.
The mission of the squadron is to secure, protect, and defend coalition weapons systems, air base assets, personnel, and resources assigned to the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing.
The men and women of the 376th ESFS know when an individual enters the base until they exit; whether a few hours or several months have passed.
“We process over 700 people a day to include more than 75 vehicles. We have a lot of Kyrgyz employees who come to prepare meals, help clean the base, and that work closely with military members. We must ensure all are properly identified,” says Staff Sgt. Christopher McCauley, 376th ESFS visitor control center journeyman deployed from the Arkansas Air National Guard’s 189th Airlift Wing SFS at Little Rock Air Force Base.
The defenders at the visitor control center, here, are charged with searching vehicles, persons, and all belongings before being cleared to enter. They use a unique biometric identification technology that is used at Manas to account for any person entering and exiting the base. The system helps ensure 100 percent accountability at all times.
Other members of the team who play a vital role in the mission are the military working dogs. Military Working Dog Handler Staff Sgt. Teri Messina, deployed from the 30th SFS at Vandenberg, Calif., patrols the base with her dog, Rico, “we are in charge of conducting vehicle, aircraft, and border sweeps here at Manas. We also train the local Kyrgyz State Security Service K-9 team which entails standard training as well as explosive searches.”
Another aspect of security forces is flightline and entry control point security operations.
“When you’re working control points and flightline patrol, you’re constantly in the mindset of waiting for anything to happen,” says Airman 1st Class William Gault, also deployed from the 189th. “Staying vigilant is key,” he added.
The recent change of Manas to a Transit Center has had a positive effect to security operations.
Maj. Todd Stuff, 376th ESFS commander, who commands the personnel representing the Air National Guard, active duty, and Northrop Grumman contractors here explains, “Although changes are in the planning stages, the opportunity to work with the Kyrgyz Ministry of Defense is a positive step in strengthening military interactions with our host country.”
Major Stuff has been deployed to the Transit Center at Manas for five months and plans to return home soon, “Deploying with units from six different states and territories provides an added benefit by forming lasting relationships and networks. My fond memories of working in the Kyrgyz Republic will always be with me throughout my career.”
TOP STORY > >LRS Airman named best in the Air Force
By Airman 1st Class Rochelle Clace
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Airmen at Little Rock Air Force Base work hard every day to excel in their careers and complete the Combat Airlift mission.
Senior Airman David Bennett, 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron equipment accountability apprentice, is one of these Airmen, having received recognition for his hard work and dedication by earning the 2008 Air Force Materiel Management Airman of the Year Award.
The award, which was presented to Airman Bennett May 28 in Washington D.C., is given to Airmen who excel in their jobs to recognize the best for the year in the materiel management career field.
“I didn’t even know I was nominated until I won for [Air Education and Training Command], and I couldn’t even believe it,” he said. “When my commander came in the office and told me I wonI was just blown away.”
Airman Bennett was honored to have earned the Air Force-level award.
“I never thought in a million years I would have won for the whole Air Force. When I found out I won I mainly felt disbelief,” he said.
Airman Bennett’s job requirements include storing and maintaining accountability for parts to ensure they are readily available for issue to maintenance and lateral support to other bases, as well as supporting the mission wherever needed.
Being a part of the team and fulfilling his part of Team Little Rock’s mission is a strong motivating factor for Airman Bennett.
“I like the feeling of being an integral part of the mission support group, the responsibility is incredible,” he said. “Maintenance needs parts to fix planes and I supply those parts around the world to bolster our mission to fly, fight and win. It is very rewarding knowing I have a part in that mission ... I want to show that I am a dedicated Airman who wants to be the best I can be at my job.”
According to Airman Bennett, family has always been a main source of support in his career and an integral part of earning the award.
“My father was in the Air Force. He was very proud of me when he found out I wanted to join [the military],” he said. “Now that I have earned an award of this magnitude he can’t hold back telling me how proud he is of me ... I couldn’t have done it without him.”
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Airmen at Little Rock Air Force Base work hard every day to excel in their careers and complete the Combat Airlift mission.
Senior Airman David Bennett, 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron equipment accountability apprentice, is one of these Airmen, having received recognition for his hard work and dedication by earning the 2008 Air Force Materiel Management Airman of the Year Award.
The award, which was presented to Airman Bennett May 28 in Washington D.C., is given to Airmen who excel in their jobs to recognize the best for the year in the materiel management career field.
“I didn’t even know I was nominated until I won for [Air Education and Training Command], and I couldn’t even believe it,” he said. “When my commander came in the office and told me I wonI was just blown away.”
Airman Bennett was honored to have earned the Air Force-level award.
“I never thought in a million years I would have won for the whole Air Force. When I found out I won I mainly felt disbelief,” he said.
Airman Bennett’s job requirements include storing and maintaining accountability for parts to ensure they are readily available for issue to maintenance and lateral support to other bases, as well as supporting the mission wherever needed.
Being a part of the team and fulfilling his part of Team Little Rock’s mission is a strong motivating factor for Airman Bennett.
“I like the feeling of being an integral part of the mission support group, the responsibility is incredible,” he said. “Maintenance needs parts to fix planes and I supply those parts around the world to bolster our mission to fly, fight and win. It is very rewarding knowing I have a part in that mission ... I want to show that I am a dedicated Airman who wants to be the best I can be at my job.”
According to Airman Bennett, family has always been a main source of support in his career and an integral part of earning the award.
“My father was in the Air Force. He was very proud of me when he found out I wanted to join [the military],” he said. “Now that I have earned an award of this magnitude he can’t hold back telling me how proud he is of me ... I couldn’t have done it without him.”
Thursday, August 6, 2009
COMMENTARY>>‘Service before self’ – not ‘service without self’
By Master Sgt. John H. Schmidt
62nd Airlift Squadron first sergeant
The term “Service Before Self” is a phrase every Airman burns in their memories from day one of basic training. Our Air Force Core Values are at the very heart of keeping Airmen all over the world focused on completing the mission. No matter the personal sacrifice, our Airmen incessantly push themselves to ensure the needs of the Air Force are not only met, but exceeded.
“Service Before Self,” this second core value, is proba bly the most demanding of the core values. By design, the human race is always in self-preservation mode. Upon entering the Air Force, we are asked to place the needs and goals of the service before our own personal goals. This can be challenging, but I have found most Airmen have embodied this core value and are more than willing to put the needs of their squadron and the Air Force before their own. Placing service before self has become a source of pride for those Airmen who have embodied its true meaning. However, it does not come without some dangers.
I was once told the core values say “Service Before Self,” not “Service Without Self.” It’s imperative we realize the Air Force is not asking us to abandon our own needs and wants. It does demand we prioritize those of the Air Force first. If we continually neglect our personal needs, individual performance will diminish. This breakdown in performance leads to mission degradation and ultimately failure.
Air Force Instruction 36-2618 “The Enlisted Force Structure” charges junior enlisted Airmen and Noncommissioned Officers to be physically and mentally ready to accomplish the mission. Being physically ready to accomplish the mission starts with physical fitness. It’s imperative each of us incorporate fitness into our daily activities. “Fit to Fight” and “WARFIT” are not just catch phrases to be used in a joking manner. The Air Force is a Profession of Arms and we must be ready to deploy and perform our combat mission at a moment’s notice. This phrase does not just mean passing our annual fitness test ... it is a total fitness check to include our mental, physical, spiritual, financial and family readiness as well.
We all know the importance of being physically fit. Air Force fitness programs are in place to assist any Airman in their quest for physical health. From the base fitness center to the health and wellness center, there are numerous support agencies available to ensure the success of the Fit to Fight mantra. These support functions cannot succeed in their support to you or your Airmen if you don’t give them a chance. Personal change and a desire to become physically fit are mandatory for each and every one of us if we are to succeed.
Mental fitness is also one of our responsibilities. The Enlisted Force Structure, para 4.1.4.3 states we must be mentally ready to accomplish the mission. Issues that can affect and detract from mental readiness are quality of life, financial problems, sexual harassment, discrimination, stress, marital problems and substance abuse. As with physical fitness, there are numerous support agencies to ensure our mental fitness as well. The Airman & Family Readiness Center is equipped to handle a multitude of challenges including -- but not limited to -- assisting with financial planning and assistance, stress and marital problems. They have counselors and experts available to see your family through a deployment and the stresses inherent to family separation. Mental Health and Family Advocacy are available to assist with stress, substance abuse and marital problems. These agencies should be sought out at the beginning of your problem, not after it has become a detriment to your physical and mental health.
It’s a balancing act to ensure our own needs and those of the Air Force are met. However, it’s imperative that you find the time to take care of yourself. We have all heard the Air Force’s number one asset is people and it has never been a more true statement than today. The challenge for all Airmen whether junior enlisted, NCO, SNCO, or Commissioned Officer is to take care of yourself, your peers, and subordinates as well as the mission. It’s not an easy task, but you have all signed up for the challenge.
62nd Airlift Squadron first sergeant
The term “Service Before Self” is a phrase every Airman burns in their memories from day one of basic training. Our Air Force Core Values are at the very heart of keeping Airmen all over the world focused on completing the mission. No matter the personal sacrifice, our Airmen incessantly push themselves to ensure the needs of the Air Force are not only met, but exceeded.
“Service Before Self,” this second core value, is proba bly the most demanding of the core values. By design, the human race is always in self-preservation mode. Upon entering the Air Force, we are asked to place the needs and goals of the service before our own personal goals. This can be challenging, but I have found most Airmen have embodied this core value and are more than willing to put the needs of their squadron and the Air Force before their own. Placing service before self has become a source of pride for those Airmen who have embodied its true meaning. However, it does not come without some dangers.
I was once told the core values say “Service Before Self,” not “Service Without Self.” It’s imperative we realize the Air Force is not asking us to abandon our own needs and wants. It does demand we prioritize those of the Air Force first. If we continually neglect our personal needs, individual performance will diminish. This breakdown in performance leads to mission degradation and ultimately failure.
Air Force Instruction 36-2618 “The Enlisted Force Structure” charges junior enlisted Airmen and Noncommissioned Officers to be physically and mentally ready to accomplish the mission. Being physically ready to accomplish the mission starts with physical fitness. It’s imperative each of us incorporate fitness into our daily activities. “Fit to Fight” and “WARFIT” are not just catch phrases to be used in a joking manner. The Air Force is a Profession of Arms and we must be ready to deploy and perform our combat mission at a moment’s notice. This phrase does not just mean passing our annual fitness test ... it is a total fitness check to include our mental, physical, spiritual, financial and family readiness as well.
We all know the importance of being physically fit. Air Force fitness programs are in place to assist any Airman in their quest for physical health. From the base fitness center to the health and wellness center, there are numerous support agencies available to ensure the success of the Fit to Fight mantra. These support functions cannot succeed in their support to you or your Airmen if you don’t give them a chance. Personal change and a desire to become physically fit are mandatory for each and every one of us if we are to succeed.
Mental fitness is also one of our responsibilities. The Enlisted Force Structure, para 4.1.4.3 states we must be mentally ready to accomplish the mission. Issues that can affect and detract from mental readiness are quality of life, financial problems, sexual harassment, discrimination, stress, marital problems and substance abuse. As with physical fitness, there are numerous support agencies to ensure our mental fitness as well. The Airman & Family Readiness Center is equipped to handle a multitude of challenges including -- but not limited to -- assisting with financial planning and assistance, stress and marital problems. They have counselors and experts available to see your family through a deployment and the stresses inherent to family separation. Mental Health and Family Advocacy are available to assist with stress, substance abuse and marital problems. These agencies should be sought out at the beginning of your problem, not after it has become a detriment to your physical and mental health.
It’s a balancing act to ensure our own needs and those of the Air Force are met. However, it’s imperative that you find the time to take care of yourself. We have all heard the Air Force’s number one asset is people and it has never been a more true statement than today. The challenge for all Airmen whether junior enlisted, NCO, SNCO, or Commissioned Officer is to take care of yourself, your peers, and subordinates as well as the mission. It’s not an easy task, but you have all signed up for the challenge.
COMMENTARY>>Making fun of stress
By Col. George Risse
19th Mission Support Group commander
Abraham Lincoln, in the midst of the Civil War, implored his advisors, “Gentlemen, why don’t you laugh? With the fearful strain that is upon me day and night, if I did not laugh I should die, and you need this medicine as much as I do.”
It’s no secret that all of us, military and civilian, are dealing with more stress than ever. Between work demands, deployments, covering for people on deployments, family needs, school, finances, personal issues and myriad little annoyances we face daily, there is rarely enough time to de-stress. The result is often a greater reliance on alcohol, risk taking, anger issues, depression and worse.
Humor is one of the greatest stress releases we have. Laughter actually reduces the level of stress hormones and increases the level of health-enhancing hormones. It increases the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the effectiveness of T-cells. This means laughter builds a stronger immune system, as well as warding off the physical effects of stress.
Laughter provides a physical and emotional release. Believe it or not, a good laugh exercises the diaphragm, contracts the abs and even works out the shoulders, leaving muscles more relaxed afterward. It even provides a good workout for the heart.
Yet, it wasn’t very long ago that most people drew a sharp distinction between work and play. If you had fun, or were found joking, laughing, or showing a “playful attitude” on the job, it was assumed that you were goofing off, not taking your work seriously, immature and unprofessional. Now more and more successful executives and managers are finally beginning to see that humor is a powerful tool in meeting the challenges and stress that are now a daily way of life in every workplace. General Dwight Eisenhower noted, “A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.”
A survey found employees with a sense of humor are more effective on the job, concluding that “People with a sense of humor tend to be more creative, less rigid and more willing to consider and embrace new ideas and methods.” When people start to have more fun on their jobs, they become energized and more productive. When you improve your sense of humor and learn to make your job fun, you take a big step toward becoming one of those people.
Humor is my favorite stress management strategy because it’s free, convenient, and builds rapport and camaraderie. As one CEO of a major company put it,“Our role and responsibility as leaders and associates is to create a place where people can enjoy themselves. I know our company is doing well when I walk around and hear people laughing.”
We’ve all seen people who somehow manage to stay in good spirits on the days they’re dealing with the same deadlines and work overload the rest of us are struggling with. I love “The Far Side” cartoon which shows two devils watching a funny looking guy smiling and whistling in the midst of the fire and brimstone. One devil says to the other, “You know, we’re just not reaching that guy.”
Thomas Edison knew the value of making work fun. Toward the end of his life, he said, “I never did a day’s work in my life — it was all fun.”
19th Mission Support Group commander
Abraham Lincoln, in the midst of the Civil War, implored his advisors, “Gentlemen, why don’t you laugh? With the fearful strain that is upon me day and night, if I did not laugh I should die, and you need this medicine as much as I do.”
It’s no secret that all of us, military and civilian, are dealing with more stress than ever. Between work demands, deployments, covering for people on deployments, family needs, school, finances, personal issues and myriad little annoyances we face daily, there is rarely enough time to de-stress. The result is often a greater reliance on alcohol, risk taking, anger issues, depression and worse.
Humor is one of the greatest stress releases we have. Laughter actually reduces the level of stress hormones and increases the level of health-enhancing hormones. It increases the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the effectiveness of T-cells. This means laughter builds a stronger immune system, as well as warding off the physical effects of stress.
Laughter provides a physical and emotional release. Believe it or not, a good laugh exercises the diaphragm, contracts the abs and even works out the shoulders, leaving muscles more relaxed afterward. It even provides a good workout for the heart.
Yet, it wasn’t very long ago that most people drew a sharp distinction between work and play. If you had fun, or were found joking, laughing, or showing a “playful attitude” on the job, it was assumed that you were goofing off, not taking your work seriously, immature and unprofessional. Now more and more successful executives and managers are finally beginning to see that humor is a powerful tool in meeting the challenges and stress that are now a daily way of life in every workplace. General Dwight Eisenhower noted, “A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.”
A survey found employees with a sense of humor are more effective on the job, concluding that “People with a sense of humor tend to be more creative, less rigid and more willing to consider and embrace new ideas and methods.” When people start to have more fun on their jobs, they become energized and more productive. When you improve your sense of humor and learn to make your job fun, you take a big step toward becoming one of those people.
Humor is my favorite stress management strategy because it’s free, convenient, and builds rapport and camaraderie. As one CEO of a major company put it,“Our role and responsibility as leaders and associates is to create a place where people can enjoy themselves. I know our company is doing well when I walk around and hear people laughing.”
We’ve all seen people who somehow manage to stay in good spirits on the days they’re dealing with the same deadlines and work overload the rest of us are struggling with. I love “The Far Side” cartoon which shows two devils watching a funny looking guy smiling and whistling in the midst of the fire and brimstone. One devil says to the other, “You know, we’re just not reaching that guy.”
Thomas Edison knew the value of making work fun. Toward the end of his life, he said, “I never did a day’s work in my life — it was all fun.”
COMMENTARY>>Average: Top of the bottom
By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing Command Chief
Question: What is right beneath average? Answer: below average.
Being average isn’t about a result, but about a mindset that leads to that result. This week I want to explore how you engage each activity associated with your life.
I believe you get out of life, your career and personal pursuits what you invest in it. So as you examine your recent results in your life, were the results average because you put forth an average effort? Or were your efforts average because you didn’t take the time to be physically, mentally, and spiritually prepared? You are the only one to answer these questions and the answers should drive your efforts toward excellence.
If you have done your best and ended up with an average result, then that’s okay because you put your all into accomplishing your goal. However, if you didn’t lay it on the line, then you are living beneath your means and you and those around you may suffer from your lack of effort. It could be in the form of lack of opportunities in promotion, decreased personal fulfillment and mission degradation.
We need each person putting their hearts and energies into themselves as well as our great team. If you see average as the top of the bottom and move toward positively exploiting your gifts, then our entire operation will improve because each person is performing at peak levels.
Being average is beneath you and that’s what separates our base from any base in the world. That’s why we were recognized as the best C-130 base in the world. They don’t just hand out those trophies to anyone. Personally our focus is to be the best we can be, to dominate any domain we’re called to operate in and to never be top of the bottom.
Combat Airlift!
19th Airlift Wing Command Chief
Question: What is right beneath average? Answer: below average.
Being average isn’t about a result, but about a mindset that leads to that result. This week I want to explore how you engage each activity associated with your life.
I believe you get out of life, your career and personal pursuits what you invest in it. So as you examine your recent results in your life, were the results average because you put forth an average effort? Or were your efforts average because you didn’t take the time to be physically, mentally, and spiritually prepared? You are the only one to answer these questions and the answers should drive your efforts toward excellence.
If you have done your best and ended up with an average result, then that’s okay because you put your all into accomplishing your goal. However, if you didn’t lay it on the line, then you are living beneath your means and you and those around you may suffer from your lack of effort. It could be in the form of lack of opportunities in promotion, decreased personal fulfillment and mission degradation.
We need each person putting their hearts and energies into themselves as well as our great team. If you see average as the top of the bottom and move toward positively exploiting your gifts, then our entire operation will improve because each person is performing at peak levels.
Being average is beneath you and that’s what separates our base from any base in the world. That’s why we were recognized as the best C-130 base in the world. They don’t just hand out those trophies to anyone. Personally our focus is to be the best we can be, to dominate any domain we’re called to operate in and to never be top of the bottom.
Combat Airlift!
TOP STORY > >Team Little Rock welcomes new 314 AW/CV
By Staff Sgt. Nestor Cruz
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The 314th Airlift Wing is in the business of training world-class
C-130 crew members and maintainers, and according to the wing’s new vice commander, business is good.
Col. Kirk Lear, 314 AW vice commander, said Little Rock Airmen are light years ahead in terms of getting the critical C-130 Combat Airlift mission accomplished.
“We are so much better as a force at deploying, redeploying, scheduling our people and taking care of families,” said Colonel Lear. “What we do here is absolutely vital. We make the very best C-130 crew members and maintainers.”
This is Colonel Lear’s second assignment here, so he is familiar and excited to be part of the Little Rock Air Force Base Combat Airlift legacy.
“I’ve heard the term ‘Team Little Rock’ throughout my 21-plus years in the C-130 community,” said Colonel Lear, who served at Little Rock 11 years ago as a flight commander on the Air Mobility Command side when the base was under Air Education and Training Command. “Whatever patch this wing is wearing, whether it’s AMC or Air Combat Command or AETC, operational missions and people are deployed from here flawlessly and training is accomplished here flawlessly.”
As the new vice commander, Colonel Lear is the second in command of the largest training fleet of C-130s in the world. The wing’s mission is to train C-130 aircrews for all services in the Department of Defense, Coast Guard and 31 allied nations, as well as C-21 aircrew through the 45th Airlift Squadron at Keesler AFB, Miss. He assists the commander in formulation and direction of command policies and procedures and supervises and coordinates activities of the wing staff.
“My goals are the goals and vision of [Col. C.K. Hyde, 314 AW commander],” he said. “As it’s always been here, we have an organization that is producing the best possible training for crew members who will fly our C-130s. We are the folks who are preparing these young men and women to fly C-130s in combat and the training we give them will be the things they fall back on in those very hairy moments you occasionally see in combat.
“If I don’t train them well, I’m not only endangering them as crew members, but I’m also endangering the lives of the passengers they might have,” Colonel Lear added.
The vice wing commander said Team Little Rock is thriving considering the challenges with housing three distinct wings.
”I don’t see challenges so much with having three wings here because people get it … they get the ‘Team Little Rock’ concept and what the base and its people are all about,” said Colonel Lear. “They are all contributing to the same effort. I think any challenges faced by this base are the same challenges facedby the rest of our Air Force, such as manning in certain Air Force Specialty Code career fields and the current operations tempo.”
Colonel Lear said he is glad to be back at the first base he was assigned to as a “family.”
“This was the first place we were really a family, so my wife and I feel like we’ve come home,” the vice wing commander said.
“My son was six weeks old when we first moved here and my daughter was born here, too. We were very involved with the community and we absolutely loved it here.
“I like the people, the culture and the patriotism of the average Arkansan so I consider myself really fortunate to be in Arkansas and serving in this capacity,” Colonel Lear said.
The colonel is looking forward to meeting Little Rock Airmen and a few old friends.
“So many of my friends retired here and I’ve been good friends with Colonel Greg Otey for 20 years,” said Colonel Lear.
Colonel Lear said he is honored to become Colonel Hyde’s vice wing commander and a vital member in the Team Little Rock leadership.
“It’s my role [as the 314th AW vice wing commander] to execute the commander’s vision,” he said. “Anything that we have as a vision would be tied to making the best possible crew members for the worldwide C-130 career force.”
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The 314th Airlift Wing is in the business of training world-class
C-130 crew members and maintainers, and according to the wing’s new vice commander, business is good.
Col. Kirk Lear, 314 AW vice commander, said Little Rock Airmen are light years ahead in terms of getting the critical C-130 Combat Airlift mission accomplished.
“We are so much better as a force at deploying, redeploying, scheduling our people and taking care of families,” said Colonel Lear. “What we do here is absolutely vital. We make the very best C-130 crew members and maintainers.”
This is Colonel Lear’s second assignment here, so he is familiar and excited to be part of the Little Rock Air Force Base Combat Airlift legacy.
“I’ve heard the term ‘Team Little Rock’ throughout my 21-plus years in the C-130 community,” said Colonel Lear, who served at Little Rock 11 years ago as a flight commander on the Air Mobility Command side when the base was under Air Education and Training Command. “Whatever patch this wing is wearing, whether it’s AMC or Air Combat Command or AETC, operational missions and people are deployed from here flawlessly and training is accomplished here flawlessly.”
As the new vice commander, Colonel Lear is the second in command of the largest training fleet of C-130s in the world. The wing’s mission is to train C-130 aircrews for all services in the Department of Defense, Coast Guard and 31 allied nations, as well as C-21 aircrew through the 45th Airlift Squadron at Keesler AFB, Miss. He assists the commander in formulation and direction of command policies and procedures and supervises and coordinates activities of the wing staff.
“My goals are the goals and vision of [Col. C.K. Hyde, 314 AW commander],” he said. “As it’s always been here, we have an organization that is producing the best possible training for crew members who will fly our C-130s. We are the folks who are preparing these young men and women to fly C-130s in combat and the training we give them will be the things they fall back on in those very hairy moments you occasionally see in combat.
“If I don’t train them well, I’m not only endangering them as crew members, but I’m also endangering the lives of the passengers they might have,” Colonel Lear added.
The vice wing commander said Team Little Rock is thriving considering the challenges with housing three distinct wings.
”I don’t see challenges so much with having three wings here because people get it … they get the ‘Team Little Rock’ concept and what the base and its people are all about,” said Colonel Lear. “They are all contributing to the same effort. I think any challenges faced by this base are the same challenges facedby the rest of our Air Force, such as manning in certain Air Force Specialty Code career fields and the current operations tempo.”
Colonel Lear said he is glad to be back at the first base he was assigned to as a “family.”
“This was the first place we were really a family, so my wife and I feel like we’ve come home,” the vice wing commander said.
“My son was six weeks old when we first moved here and my daughter was born here, too. We were very involved with the community and we absolutely loved it here.
“I like the people, the culture and the patriotism of the average Arkansan so I consider myself really fortunate to be in Arkansas and serving in this capacity,” Colonel Lear said.
The colonel is looking forward to meeting Little Rock Airmen and a few old friends.
“So many of my friends retired here and I’ve been good friends with Colonel Greg Otey for 20 years,” said Colonel Lear.
Colonel Lear said he is honored to become Colonel Hyde’s vice wing commander and a vital member in the Team Little Rock leadership.
“It’s my role [as the 314th AW vice wing commander] to execute the commander’s vision,” he said. “Anything that we have as a vision would be tied to making the best possible crew members for the worldwide C-130 career force.”
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