JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Today's complex military environment can be a challenge for you and your loved ones. Comprehensive Airmen Fitness is an important part of our Air Force culture and should not take a vacation when you are enjoying your holidays.
This model isn't new to our sister services, in fact it is based on the Army's Comprehensive Soldier Fitness program. Its purpose is to provide focus on taking care of ourselves, our fellow service members and our families in an effort to develop more resilient military members. Having resiliency means having the ability to successfully manage obstacles, while learning and growing from the process of overcoming them. While CAF uses the term "Airmen," it should not be viewed as a strictly "Air Force" program. The elements within CAF apply to Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen alike.
Embedded in CAF are five positive behavioral actions: connect, communicate, celebrate, commit and care. These actions are the essence of what you can do to build resiliency for yourself and others.
Connect: Connection with others can keep you motivated and help you overcome challenges more easily. Use this time to connect with your family, friends or maybe the coworkers you see on a daily basis but whose interaction never ventures outside of "workplace conversation." Do you have anyone in your life that may not feel included as a part of the team? Reach out to them or perhaps contact an old friend you haven't seen in awhile.
Communicate: Good communication lets others know they are part of a team. Take a moment to chat with those around you. Reflect on how you communicate. Are you a good listener in addition to being able to clearly articulate your ideas to others? Communication is not a one-way street.
Celebrate: Celebration is one of the themes of the holiday season. It develops companionship among friends and family members and brings out a positive attitude. Everyone needs a chance to relax and have a great time with loved ones. Please remember to celebrate safely. Airman Against Drunk Driving is always available. Have a plan and execute it!
Commit: Commitment is being dedicated to who and what you are. You represent the best of what America has to offer. A culture of service is inherent in our very nature. Look for opportunities to further develop your commitment. This could be assisting someone in need, making plans to enhance your knowledge through additional educational opportunities or simply carving out time to spend with your family or close friends. Affirm your commitment to something that motivates you to be a better military professional, family member or friend.
Care: Caring is the act of looking out for each other's health and welfare. The holidays are the perfect opportunity to show care and compassion for your fellow citizens. The strength of our military resides with its personnel. Dedicate time toward developing the CAF pillars of mental, physical, spiritual and social fitness for yourselves and encourage those around you to do the same.
This season, I encourage everyone on Joint Base Charleston to incorporate the five Cs into their holiday festivities and take this time to develop your own and other's resiliency.
Phylis and I wish you all a very happy holiday and prosperous New Year. Stay safe and take care of your Wingmen and Shipmates.