Commentaries

Airmen must pursue operational excellence
May 20, 2009 — Team Charleston knows and lives by the Air Force Core Values ... integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do. Trust in our core values is also fundamental in everything we do. Without them, nothing can be done. During the past several months, Team Charleston members have demonstrated a tremendous amount of service before self... MORE

Memorial Day remembrance
May 19, 2009 — Contrary to popular belief, Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend marking the beginning of summer. For many people, especially the nation's thousands of combat veterans, the day has a history stretching all the way back to the Civil War and is an important reminder of all those who died in the service of their country. However, the national... MORE

Commander's Comments
May 13, 2009 — First and foremost, let me say thank you to all of Team Charleston for the great welcome for the Wood family. The base looked exceptional and the wing change of command ceremony was outstanding. Everyone who participated looked sharp in front of the community. Our own 18th Air Force commander, Maj. Gen. Winfield Scott III, left impressed and ready... MORE

Are you ready for promotion testing?
May 11, 2009 — It's that time of year again for many of our best and brightest Airmen to vie for their next rank. Over the years, I have found three keys to success with the Weighted Airman Promotion System. First, familiarize yourself with all the components making up the weighted factors. Second, know what materials you need to study, and lastly, reduce your... MORE

Air Force nursing: 60 years, still counting
May 11, 2009 — The upcoming 60th anniversary of the Air Force Medical Service and the Air Force Nurse Corps reminds me that I have been a part of this elite group of Airmen for just over a third of its existence. Although the youngest of the military's medical services, the AFMS has a proud heritage. The service's history began June 8, 1949, when the Department... MORE

Command Chief's Corner
May 11, 2009 — Team Charleston, the beginning of summer is always a time of change. As the weather warms up, more Airmen and their families enjoy activities such as boating, water sports, riding motorcycles and other outdoor activities. Many of us also spend time traveling and enjoying vacations. With these activities and trips comes a certain amount of risk, so... MORE

Commander's final commentary
May 7, 2009 — Team Charleston, it has been an honor and privilege to have served as your wing commander during these last 23 months. Though it is hard to say goodbye to such a great community and Air Force family, I leave here knowing you are in good hands under the leadership of Col. John Wood. I have every confidence you will continue to be at the forefront in... MORE

Preparing for the inspection
May 6, 2009 — For the past four months, the 437th Airlift Wing has been busy preparing for upcoming inspections. Many hours were expended inspecting programs, researching regulations, cleaning up work areas and ensuring our Airmen are ready for this test. With the inspection on our doorstep, now is the time to make the final tweaks and ensure we have the right... MORE

Commanders Action Line
May 5, 2009 — Comment: Hello, I am retired military and had some displeasure about calling the clinic recently. Every time I call, I get an answering machine. The answering machine says if you leave a message, it usually takes between one and three days for someone to get back with you. It has been my experience that, nine times out of 10, it is day three when I... MORE

Supporting professional organizations and the local community
May 5, 2009 — After 22 years of service, I have noticed some things never change, including our professional organizations. Many of the organizations I hold near and dear to my heart are the Air Force Sergeants Association, Chiefs Group, Top Three, First Sergeants Association, First Six and the African American Heritage Council, just to name a few. Throughout my... MORE