CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
This past year I have written about the attributes a "good" Airman possesses. There is no single mold or checklist to fit every example, but we have many good Airmen throughout this wing and our Air Force. Each of them understands the importance of standards, executing the mission, serving their community and they all have character. But what else do we need to be successful? How does a good Airman become a great Airman?
You most likely have the skills, knowledge and ability to execute your assigned tasks to get the job done, but how do you go about doing it? Do you have drive, enthusiasm and excitement for your duties or are you just "going through the motions?" You've probably experienced at one time or another someone who is supposed to help you out, but goes just far enough to do what they are supposed to and no further. Not only is that frustrating, but it also leaves a sour taste in your mouth. If this was a business or commercial industry, you probably wouldn't return for a second chance. However, this is not your local department store and we don't make doughnuts in the morning. Listen up, our Air Force needs you to have something more.
In today's Air Force, meeting minimum standards won't cut it. You must have passion for what you do. Passion is defined as a compelling emotion or feeling, which is powerful and it makes the difference between a good Airman and a great one. Passion is the reason our wing is recognized over and over again. It's not because we have knowledgeable Airmen to do the job, but passionate Airmen who go that extra step to get the job done perfectly. Passion is why you walk away from an experience with a good feeling, why you smile at the end of the day and why you get up in the morning to face the next challenge.
I am very passionate about the job I do. If I wasn't, I would seriously consider retirement. I wouldn't trade my job for any other, but I know one day I will move on to a new calling and am looking forward to heading down a new path with enthusiasm. I am not alone. I often find examples of how many of our newest Airmen, and sometimes our oldest, are passionate about what they do. I am reminded in the morning by security forces Airmen when they greet me with a smile, and say "good morning shirt, have a nice day!" When I am leaving the fitness center, the gentleman behind the counter says, "come on back!" Even at two in the morning when the medical technician waits patiently through a long delay, he stays positive and makes sure the task gets done right. In fact just a few days ago, I was reminded how passion carries well into retirement when a former maintainer exchanged letters with me. It was great to hear about his experiences and it was evident he still had passion for our Air Force.
Do you go the extra mile to get the job done? Are you willing to take additional measures to make your customer happy? Do you look forward to your day? If so, you have this passion I am talking about. If not, don't fear, you can kindle this fire that burns in all of us. Start by taking an extra step to help your wingman, maybe work a few minutes extra to double check your work or simply smile. You'll feel better about what you do.