Commentaries

Enforcing AF standards important for all
January 22, 2007 — How many times have you seen someone in uniform go by and they were not wearing the uniform correctly? Have you ever corrected someone? I can bet not many people have actually corrected others who were wearing the uniform incorrectly. I remember when I was a young Airman how difficult it was to walk up to someone I didn't even know and try to... MORE

How does your leadership style affect those around you?
January 19, 2007 — During the course of your career in the military you may have heard various people state they are "just one person" and that they are not responsible for the morale of others, adding if someone can not "handle it" maybe they should just get out of the military. I will allow that everyone has their own leadership style. Some lead by example and... MORE

Squadron commander highlights Airmen's work, dedication, awards
January 16, 2007 — While some may accuse me of being biased, I think most people would have to look far and wide to find another career field in the Air Force that impacts the lives of our Airmen and their families as much as the civil engineer. Traditional facility engineers, environmental professionals, housing specialists, entomologists, heavy equipment operators,... MORE

Shirt shares helpful tips for managing holiday debt
December 15, 2006 — Thanksgiving and Christmas are two of my favorite holidays. It is a time to gather with family and friends to relax and unwind. Unfortunately, it is also the time of year when people tend to spend a little too much money buying gifts or other items for the holidays. Since the holiday season is upon us, I thought it would be a good time to offer... MORE

AF psychologist: wingman concept saves lives
December 15, 2006 — I was recently deployed as a psychologist on short notice to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, in May of this year. Since my return to Charleston AFB, I have been enjoying time with my family and the cooler weather. I have had many people tell me that Al Udeid is a good place to be deployed if you have to go to the Middle East. I would agree with them in... MORE

People taking care of people
December 8, 2006 — Happy holidays. These words are often spoken during this time of year. Yet, when it comes right down to it how many of us are willing to play a role to ensure someone has a happy holiday? Upon returning to work after the Thanksgiving holiday, I asked the usual question to those I came in contact with, "How was your Thanksgiving?" Most responded... MORE

The key to readiness is balance in all aspects of life
December 8, 2006 — Life is busy. The operations tempo is high. It seems as though there are always more items on the "to do" list than there is time to accomplish them. Add to this the holiday season, when life gets even busier than normal with special celebrations and events. It is a good time to refocus on what I consider the key to readiness - balance. The first... MORE

Why attention to detail is so important
December 1, 2006 — If you have been in or around the Air Force for a while it is likely that one of your commanders or supervisors has touted the value of having exceptional "attention to detail." But what is "attention to detail" and why is it something you should practice? Attention to detail can be defined as "being thorough in accomplishing a task with concern... MORE

The consequences of one bad decision
November 20, 2006 — I want everyone to imagine laying in a small metal bed with one eye open trying to fall asleep ... frightened someone might drop a locker on you as they get up to use the restroom in the middle of the night. You are periodically thinking of loved ones back home ... reminiscing about past memories and wondering what you are missing out on. You... MORE

AF heritage built on pursuit of better ways to complete mission
November 3, 2006 — "The Air Force is built on a heritage of heretics," proclaimed retired Lt. Gen. P.K. Carlton, former Air Force Surgeon General in a recent briefing. I have to admit at first I was a bit offended by his comment, he said them as if pinning a badge of honor on the chest of each of us listening. His words shocked me, but as he continued, the evidence... MORE