JOINT BASE CHARLESTON –
Have you ever heard the term "good enough for government work"? How does that make you feel? If you are anything like me then it should make you feel less than adequate. We didn't become the greatest Air Force in the world by living up to the "good enough for government work" standard.
Last time I checked we still have "Excellence In All We Do" as part of our core values which by itself creates an aura of higher standards. Excellence begins with basic customs and courtesies; adding respectful terms of address whether in or out of uniform to everyone regardless of rank. Saluting officers, designated staff cars and rendering the proper respect to the flag when "caught" instead of rushing for cover inside the nearest building are examples of airman excellence.
Following Air Force instructions and technical orders are other ways we can demonstrate a commitment to excellence. Every time you meet someone an impression is made about you, from the way you wear your uniform to 'manscaping' your 'I got a shaving waiver' beard. Those simple items are covered and standardized in an AF instruction; take a few minutes out of your busy day to look it up.
Adhering to technical orders as written is extremely important; shortcuts can shorten lives and damage equipment. Don't think because you've changed the same part 90 times just this once it's okay to not use all the screws needed for that panel.
Furthermore, something as simple as spotting a fellow Airman backing a government vehicle, working as a team following directions in order to avoid a preventable crash, is yet one more example of excellence.
Taking the time to correct people ensures adherence to a culture of excellence and it is what is expected of each and every person in the Air Force. Yes, I know it isn't always a pleasant experience to be corrected. Trust me, after 22 years of service I've received my share of corrections. Look at it as developing excellence every time someone takes a moment to correct another, thereby ensuring a standard of excellence is maintained. Every time you fail to correct an error, you set a new standard ... maybe you are even setting the "good enough for government work" standard.
In order to avoid "good enough for government work," becoming a core value and our Air Force becoming a less powerful component, take the time to correct less than excellent behavior, attitudes and actions. In the current world of economic hurt and cutbacks we cannot afford less than excellent. Practicing the core value "Excellence In All We Do" saves time, money and lives.