CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
This is the season for all Americans to reflect on what our country's independence means for us as a nation, and what it means for the world - our great country is on display as the picture of freedom.
Today, you and I are busy at work supporting our country in a valiant and long fight. We are part of it each day, and as you serve with excellence and integrity, it proves this is the best Air Force the world has ever seen.
Isn't it a great feeling when you're out in public and someone comes up and thanks you for your service?
We have a lot to be proud of as we have the privilege to serve in such a time as this. With this privilege comes responsibility, and there's one responsibility that we often overlook - the ability to tell about the Air Force mission.
Do you speak Air Force? I don't mean the military jargon filled with acronyms and specialized terms. I mean can you explain to your neighbor why reinvigorating the Air Force's nuclear enterprise is such a high priority? It's the chief of staff and secretary of the Air Force's top priority. Maybe we should all be able to talk about that and many other key Air Force topics.
I have found many of the great Americans you will run into in the community are eager to get the insider perspective on military and defense issues, and it is a great opportunity. Where the responsibility comes in, is to not just repeat what we heard at the water cooler, or even on the local news, but to get the information for yourself.
It's not hard to get up to speed and stay informed. Here are three tips you can easily add to your routine.
First, read this paper. Obviously you are doing pretty good at that, but before you skip to the classifieds to find that great deal, read the Commander's Comments, Command Chief's Corner and Diamond Notes - and all the other great articles. In a few minutes, you'll be up to speed on what is going on here and around the Air Force.
Second, you know those CSAF and SECAF letters that get sent out to your e-mail accounts? Read them. They are normally very short, and are an excellent way for you to hear straight from the top leaders about what they are working on for you.
Third, spend a minute on Air Force Portal before navigating away. Check out the Publications and News Links. One of the options is Aim Points, where you'll find Air Force related news articles gathered for you from Air Force and national publications.
Ten minutes once a week is all it takes, and I'm convinced you'll find yourself more connected to our great Air Force and more confident to speak about it when you have the opportunity.