Commentaries

Command Chief’s Corner
June 2, 2010 — I recently had the eye-opening experience of flying with Airmen from the 437th Airlift Wing on a mission to Afghanistan. Observing the network of support services coming together for generation and sustainment of aircraft missions was fascinating. Crew transportation, fuels, flight kitchen, base operations, command post, crew stage, aircraft... MORE

Chief Master Sgt. Terrence Greene, 437th Airlift Wing command chief

We are not friends
June 2, 2010 — As I finish my two years as a squadron commander, to say I have learned a lot about myself as a leader would be an understatement. If I were completely honest with myself, I would have to say as I entered command, I knew I was entering an amazing squadron with great people - but I really hoped that people would like and respect me, and the "being... MORE

Diamond Tips
June 2, 2010 — Smoking and Smokeless TobaccoIf you use tobacco products, did you know there is an Air Force Instruction concerning "Tobacco Use in the Air Force?" The AFI is 40-102. Within this AFI, there are certain restrictions concerning tobacco products. Section 2.2 states "the Air Force prohibits smoking and the use of spit/loose tobacco products in the... MORE

Diamond Tips
May 25, 2010 — Enlisted ResponsibilitiesHave you been to the gym lately? A trend is occurring there and around the base. No, it's not the rumor mongering about the new physical training standards. It's the lack of attention to detail by Joint Base Charleston Airmen.The simple standard of tucking in the PT shirt is being violated in mass it seems. I know this is a... MORE

Command Chief’s Corner
May 25, 2010 — "Actions speak louder than words" and "there's no time like the present" are two phrases that explain how I believe we should both lead and take care of our Airmen.According to Michael Donley, Secretary of the Air Force, "Airmen want a sense of community, and sound Air Force policy can help foster it. But it is leadership at the local level that... MORE

101 Critical days “same old story same old song and dance”
May 24, 2010 — The 101 Critical Days of Summer has rolled around one more time, which reminded me of my favorite Aerosmith lyrics, "Same old story, same old song and dance." It has been 22 years since my first 101 Critical Days of Summer "sermon" and my message is still the same.To all motorists - wear your seatbelts, don't drink and drive, ensure your automobile... MORE

Memorial Day – Take Time to Pause and Reflect
May 21, 2010 — As we all prepare to observe Memorial Day, let me first thank you for your extraordinary dedication and contributions to our nation and this command. Whatever the challenge, you continually answer the call and perform your mission with incredible distinction and courage.Speaking of courage, I ask that you take a moment and pay tribute to the... MORE

Commander’s Comments
May 19, 2010 — We are busy, without question. From the Afghanistan surge, to the Charleston stage and our local joint basing, we are all working hard to make a difference. I don't have to remind you that you need to stay focused and pay attention to detail. You are all doing an extraordinary job and I thank you for the effort you put forth each day.Chief Greene... MORE

Col. John Wood, 437th Airlift Wing commander

The system works
May 19, 2010 — It's nice to say our very own 437th Maintenance Squadron Non-Destructive Inspection technician, Airmen 1st Class Allen Frankenberger, was selected for the Leadership in Encouraging Airmen Development program.He is one of 85 Airmen selected to attend the United States Air Force Academy, receive a free education and eventually commission as an... MORE

Commander’s Comments
May 12, 2010 — One of the fundamental pillars to leadership is communication, as I'll contend we don't have a whole lot of mind readers in our units. So, if our Airmen aren't telepathic, we're going to have to talk and write to them if we want them to know something. Equally important, we're going to have to ensure the message was received. And it goes up channel... MORE

Col. Martha Meeker assumed command of the 628th Air Base Wing at Charleston AFB Jan. 8. As the 628 ABW commander, Colonel Meeker will direct host unit duties for the tenant units of Charleston AFB, and after Jan. 31 for Naval Weapons Station Charleston tenant units as well, as they are merged into Joint Base Charleston. Joint Base Charleston is one of 12 joint bases across the Department of Defense scheduled to stand up. (U.S. Air Force photo)