JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
How many of you "seasoned" military professionals out there have asked yourselves what has gone wrong with our young Airmen these days? And just to clarify, when I say seasoned, I'm speaking of those nearing or beyond 20 years of military service.
Just recently, a fellow senior non-commissioned officer said to me, "I just don't understand what these kids today are thinking. Airmen today are nothing like I was when I came in."
Comments like that just make me shake my head. My response to this one was something to the effect of, "Your right; most of them are a far sight better."
Although that wasn't what he expected to hear, I am convinced it's a true statement. For one thing, when I enlisted more than 20 years ago we didn't even use the word "deployment." The only desert most of us ever saw outside of Nevada prior to 9/11 was during Operation Desert Storm. It was a good thing too, considering the fitness regimen for many at the time consisted of no more than the required 1.5 mile run once a year. Also, being a much larger force at the time, we were better able to spread the wealth to accomplish the mission.
Now, multiple deployments to hostile environments are commonplace. Being physically fit is a priority that's stressed from the highest levels and while the mantra of doing more with less has been prevalent in the military for as long as I can remember, I doubt it's ever been more accurate. I'm not so certain how I would've handled that additional responsibility as a young Airman myself, but the majority of our newest Airmen seem to be more than up to the task.
Those who join our ranks today do so in a time of tremendous change for the Air Force and ongoing turmoil in the world. Fortunately, the new challenges we're faced with as we become a more expeditionary force are being met by bright, fit, dedicated new Airmen. In many cases, they are individuals who have significant college experience, many with degrees. This was definitely not the case when I came in. The average level of education among our most junior ranks as compared to when I was a first-termer is dramatically higher, the result of which is often more capable and adaptable Airmen.
By no means am I saying that every young Airman epitomizes professionalism. Trust me, I am well aware that's not the case. There will always be those who, for whatever reason, are unable to uphold the high standards required of them as military members. But on the whole, I firmly believe the Airmen of today are smarter, stronger and better equipped to meet the demands of military service than any who came before them. As a result, when it comes time for this old fogey to move on, I'll be able to retire knowing that my Air Force, our Air Force, is in good hands.