Commentaries

People vs. mission — a false dichotomy
March 29, 2007 — In the course of even a short career, most of us have had leaders we greatly respected who authoritatively stated something like "people come first, even before the mission." We have also heard equally capable leaders who, with equal zeal, pronounced "the mission always comes first." Some try to bridge the gap without explaining it by pithy... MORE

Command Chief's Corner
March 29, 2007 — Good morning Team Charleston. Let me begin this week by congratulating the recent graduates of Airmen Leadership School class 07-C. What an extraordinary group of Airmen. These Charleston warriors are ready to accept the reins of leadership that will be thrust into their hands. If you are able to spend any amount of time with them you will see they... MORE

Change benefits Airmen
March 29, 2007 — I'm sure we've all heard it before, "the Air Force just isn't the same as it used to be" and I must admit, the Air Force we have today is very different from when I first enlisted 15 years ago. Even though some might not like change, the changes the Air Force has gone through were necessary to help us become more effective, flexible and productive... MORE

Command Chief's Corner
March 21, 2007 — Good morning, Team Charleston. With the blossoming of trees and the sounds of chirping birds filling the air, we know that spring is truly here. With the warmer weather and longer days, we will have an even greater opportunity to experience the numerous outdoor activities that draw so many to the Lowcountry. As we start planning for those... MORE

Prescription for good health and longevity
March 20, 2007 — Recently I attended the birthday party of a friend, who turned 50. In addition to the usual cake, ice cream and pizza, he received an "over the hill" plaque for his desk and several sympathy cards. My friend, Pete, remained a good sport throughout the party and graciously accepted the taunting from his younger friends. I heard him say something... MORE

Lt. Col. Beverly Smith, 437th Medical Operations Squadron commander.

What makes a great Airman?
March 20, 2007 — 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... MORE

Commander's Comments
March 19, 2007 — "Attitudes are infectious, whether you have a negative attitude or a positive attitude. I have seen people with a positive outlook on life literally move mountains." -- John Lawson. John Lawson is the CEO and president of Virginia's largest building contractor and a graduate of my Alma Matter, Virginia Tech... MORE

Commander's Comments
March 19, 2007 — Team Charleston, without a doubt you are the best of the best!! It was appropriate that last week's roll call topic was recognition. Team Charleston is saving lives and delivering freedom everyday! Thanks for helping to ensure that every member of our team understands his or her role in the global war on terrorism. It is extremely important we make... MORE

Command Chief's Corner
March 14, 2007 — Good morning Team Charleston! Let me begin this week by extending a very warm and heartfelt greeting to all of the distinguished visitors who are spending some time with us this week. As I have said many times before, we are always excited about the opportunity to showcase some of the best warriors in Air Mobility Command. Congratulations are in... MORE

Sept. 11 can be source of inspiration for Airmen
March 14, 2007 — In 2001, I was stationed at McChord AFB, Wash., as a C-141B pilot. Today, almost six years later and now a C-17 pilot, I have seen every version of our C-17 expeditionary airlift operations. From the dank, dungeon operations at Rhein-Main AB, Germany, to the hot and dusty tents of forward-operating bases, to our current lean, fighting machine: the... MORE