Commentaries

Glad to be back in the Lowcountry
September 30, 2015 — On July 31st I assumed command of SPAWAR Systems Center (SSC) Atlantic and couldn't be happier to be back in the Lowcountry among the talented professionals of SSC Atlantic and Joint Base Charleston.To return for my third assignment at SSC Atlantic is a very humbling experience. Like many members of the Joint Base Charleston military family, over... MORE

Navy Capt. Scott Heller, SPAWAR commanding officer

Drinking alcohol responsibly, what does that mean?
September 30, 2015 — As I sat at the hotel bar, sipping whiskey on the rocks, I thought about the opportunity that had been presented to me - author a piece for the Commander's Commentary. People, who know me well, know I often enjoy expressing my thoughts via written form. However, I have often embarked upon such endeavors in informal settings and with a passion that... MORE

Master Sgt. Joseph Hayne, 628th Comptroller Squadron

What are you going to do?
September 22, 2015 — What are you going to do? It's a simple question but, in any scenario, it challenges your thought processes and perspective. As a 21 year old Second Lieutenant, I walked into my Squadron Commander's office to brief her on a disciplinary issue in my flight. After a three minute description of the events I paused, waiting on a solution from the... MORE

Why generational differences should matter to military members
September 17, 2015 — As military members it has become increasingly necessary to consider generational differences within our ranks. Generational differences contribute to how we communicate, what we value and what motivates us as military members. Our professional military education covers a great deal but never really incorporates generational experiences and how... MORE

Political Season Guidelines
September 16, 2015 — The presidential primary elections are quickly approaching and the campaigns are in full swing. Candidates are vying for the support from all parts of the electorate. As members of the armed forces, we are one of the instruments of national policy. Our elected leaders set these national policies. I encourage every member of the armed forces to... MORE

68 Years of Mission! Airmen! Fun!
September 16, 2015 — Those of us who serve in the 437th Airlift Wing know our priorities are Mission! Airmen! Fun! We are driven to accomplish the mission of safe, precise and reliable airlift anywhere in the world while taking care of our amazing Airmen and their families. Oh yeah, we like to have fun along the way! On September 18, 2015, as we celebrate the Air... MORE

It’s OK to Think and Be Part of the Discussion!
September 9, 2015 — How often do you read? Whether its comics or Clausewitz, spend some time delving into a topic of interest. Your selections don't have to be military-specific or leadership oriented. Read the official, the unofficial and stay plugged-in to what's going on. Information is readily accessible and much of it can be a valuable resource, providing the... MORE

Maj. Chris Landwehr, 628th Communications Squadron commander

Navy Corrections - A History
September 1, 2015 — Over the last century, the U.S. Navy corrections system has evolved along the lines of corrections practice and philosophy used by civilian institutions around the nation. By replacing the "Articles for the Government of the Navy (Rocks and Shoals)" with the Uniform Code of Military Justice in 1951, progressive improvements in the treatment of... MORE

Suicide and Stress ... Combat Stress
September 1, 2015 — Suicide seems to be a more common occurrence today in the military than when I first joined.According to government data being highlighted in mainstream media and online, 22 veterans are "successfully" committing suicide daily. While every day life pressures and combat stress are challenges, they are temporary. An issue that may seem insurmountable... MORE

Navy and Air Force ranks, not as different you think
August 26, 2015 — Hello again. Let me begin by saying thank you to all the Joint Base Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Soldiers and Coast Guardsmen for what you do every day. It isn't always easy to do our jobs but all of you handle it with grace. I have been at Joint Base Charleston for more than two years and have had this conversation several times. Once again, I... MORE

Command Master Chief Joseph Gardner, Joint Base Charleston command master chief