JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Many of us have experienced the excitement and anxiety that consumes our thoughts while waiting for the results of a promotion board. Many years ago, an Airman I knew was gutting out the days before the board results were released and mentioned that she had better be a school select as well as being promoted because, in her words, "the Air Force owes me!"
In her way of thinking, she was owed something because she had pulled a remote duty assignment and had some negative experiences with past bosses. Beyond that, she never was really clear about why she felt this way, except to say that the Air Force owed her.
At the time, I said nothing, but this statement has often been in my thoughts through the years. Does the Air Force owe her? Does the Air Force owe you?
We answer our nation's call by joining the military freely. That's why it's called an all volunteer force. Unless you sign on for specific training, the Air Force does not owe you anything besides what is covered in your basic contract. We're not owed special schools or opportunities or even promotions. Those are privileges we earn.
Sure, when you do a good job or volunteer for something out of the norm you might expect the Air Force, via your supervisor, will recognize that and perhaps reward you later down the road. However, you are not owed anything special for doing your job.
That's because it IS your job! It's what you signed on to do. Job descriptions and duties change, especially as you progress through your career. Moreover, if you do your job well and you have good supervisors, you will be recognized and rewarded for a job well done.
There are many Airmen who do excellent work every day and don't get the recognition they should. Some of these are Airmen I look to as mentors. For whatever reason, their records don't reflect their true character and abilities.
But, do you know what's most amazing about these Airmen? They continue to press forward. They embody President John F. Kennedy's challenge of " ...ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."
It is up to the supervisors to make sure Airmen are recognized for their work and sometimes that does not happen. I challenge you as supervisors and leaders to ensure your Airmen are rewarded for their exceptional work.
I ask you as leaders, to ensure your Airmen are recognized. From a pat on the back to awards and nominations for special programs, make it part of your duty to recognize your Airmen. Because although the Air Force may not owe them, you, as their leaders, do.
So, what does the Air Force owe you? Nothing. What do you owe your Airmen? Everything.