CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
As I write this article after returning from the ceremony inducting Gen. Arthur Lichte, the commander of Air Mobility Command, into the Order of the Sword, I'm thankful we were able to send 26 Team Charleston Airmen to Scott AFB, Ill., to participate in an event the enlisted Airmen use to honor leaders who have truly made a difference.
For many, the chance to attend an Order of the Sword ceremony is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and in fact, this was the first I've attended.
We were fascinated by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, enjoyed the music of the U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America's Hot Brass and witnessed a ceremony rich in tradition, executed professionally. Many of us were overwhelmed at times by the experience and also equally impressed by General Lichte's recollections of the enlisted Airmen who have made a difference in his career.
After hearing General Lichte's words, I hope the Airmen who attended realize their actions and words, both negative and positive, often leave a lasting impression on our future leaders. Sometimes what we do and say, or fail to do and say, can have a profound impact on our fellow Airmen. No matter what our rank happens to be, if we use our core values to guide our actions, we're much more likely to have a positive impact on those we serve with.
The Airmen chosen to attend the Order of the Sword ceremony also participated in a professional development seminar where they interacted with several key leaders from throughout the command.
Additionally, we have several Charleston Airmen attending the Air Force Sergeants Association Professional Airmen's Conference, including first Sergeants, the career assistance advisor, the Airman Leadership School commandant and others who I hope will benefit us all as they apply what they've learned at the conference after returning home.
As a service, we cannot function effectively and efficiently without the leadership of our enlisted Airmen, and I'm thankful we are able to provide these types of professional development opportunities. Please take advantage of any professional development opportunity that comes your way, but we don't have to wait for formal opportunities; we develop into professional Airmen by knowing and following the rules.
Now that summer is winding down and our children are back in school, help keep them safe by following our traffic laws and by driving attentively. You'll notice an increased emphasis on making sure we're all obeying the law.
When I rode my motorcycle through the gate last weekend, one of the defenders asked if he could see my Motorcycle Safety Foundation training card, and I thanked this young Airman for doing his part to make sure I'm riding safely; this young man is a true professional Airman. Remember, our traffic safety rules are designed to keep us all safe and to prevent loss of life and property, and we can expect our security forces to enforce them at all times.
To those Airmen who attended the Order of the Sword, I truly appreciate the professionalism you showed while representing Team Charleston in front of the entire command. You made me extremely proud to be part of your team.