Commentaries

A time to be thankful
December 11, 2012 — The Thanksgiving meal is over and everyone has joined the holiday rush. Our tendency is to focus our concentration on wish lists, retail store sales and extended time searching the internet for the newest and greatest deals. In the middle of this holiday season, my wish is just a bit of extra time for everyone to reflect on the year and on the... MORE

Effective Study Habits Linked to Success
December 11, 2012 — As we continue into the enlisted promotion testing cycle, I encourage everyone to read and follow the guidance in AFPAM 36-2241, Professional Development Guide, specifically Chapter one.Chapter one outlines everything anyone will need to know to become a success in any endeavor.Section 1C outlines the need to stay motivated, focus attention,... MORE

Diamond Tips: Making healthy relationships
December 5, 2012 — I had the pleasure of taking some leave and visiting my family in the great state of Mississippi during the Thanksgiving holiday. The food was absolutely unbelievable. As I watched my mom take the cornbread from the iron skillet, creating the best cornbread dressing I have had in my life, I couldn't help but think how important my family is to me... MORE

Diamond Tip: Proper cold weather uniform wear
December 5, 2012 — As the days of cold weather are upon us, here are a few things to remember when wearing cold weather items in uniform:In Airman Battle Uniform:· Outerwear is only worn while outdoors and must be zipped and buttoned up to the chest. · In order to wear the knit watch cap, you must wear appropriate outerwear, such as the APEC or Fleece.· You must wear... MORE

Professionals
December 5, 2012 — Over the holidays, my father and I were talking about life and work. He mentioned that someone at his workplace commented that previously, he was one of only a few "professionals," but now he works on a team in which everyone is a professional. I thought about that statement and realized that we frequently use buzz words, but rarely internalize... MORE

Yes, we are held to higher standards
November 28, 2012 — "Because power corrupts, society's demands for moral authority and character increase as the importance of the position increases." - John AdamsLast week, I had the privilege of sitting with four ladies on the Palmetto Chapter of the Women in Defense panel in recognition of Veterans Day. I, along with guests from the Navy, Coast Guard and Army,... MORE

Have an old-fashioned conversation
November 28, 2012 — As we move into the holiday season, we generally consider it to be a time of the year that brings friends and family closer together. We emphasize strengthening the bonds of relationships that support us through tough times and create lasting meaning. All of that being said, it's interesting that some of the most popular gifts given during the... MORE

Personal accountability and CAF
November 21, 2012 — "It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do for which we are accountable," said Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, a French playwright and actor from the 1600's, also known by his stage name Molière.In today's Air Force, that statement should stand true no matter what tier of the enlisted force structure you may fall into. With 2012 coming to an... MORE

What’s your attitude toward fitness?
November 21, 2012 — I want to take a few minutes and address how we have transitioned in the fitness arena since my entry into the United States Air Force. In doing so, I will ask you the ultimate question: Are you fit to fight or fit to test?Since enlisting back in 1996, the Air Force has continuously transformed and will continue to evolve well beyond my retirement... MORE

Continuous process improvement begins with you
November 20, 2012 — As our civilian leaders search for solutions to the country's mounting fiscal challenges, we must continually find ways to work smarter, not harder. With possible manning and budget reductions on the horizon, finding efficiencies in everyday operations is vital to the success of our mission at Joint Base Charleston and of the United States military... MORE