CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
With a successful completion of the operational readiness inspection behind us, it's time to refocus our priorities. During the months of preparation for the ORI, Team Charleston was able to narrow in on areas that needed attention. We worked tirelessly to revitalize those areas and were more than inspection ready by the time the ORI arrived. In the same way, when we go about our daily duties, we must remember that overlooked items and skipped steps, in time, become standard operating procedure.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley, in his recent "Letter to Airmen," tasked all organizations to "Critically examine our internal processes, restore discipline, identify weaknesses, and aggressively solve problems." In short, we need to get back to the basics.
Air Mobility Command commander Gen. Arthur Lichte, in his June 9, 2008, "Memorandum for All AMC Personnel" stated that a return to basics means "Leaders must lead" and that "Ultimately, if you're a leader -- whether an officer, senior NCO, NCO, or civilian -- your most important objective is to foster a culture in which all Airmen feel responsible for themselves, their wingman, and their mission."
The Air Force has a history and tradition of innovation and a willingness to question the status quo -- traits without which lead us to stagnation. We must continue that long-standing tradition of excellence, and fight any complacency or laissez-faire attitude in our jobs -- what we do is simply too important.
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz said after being sworn in that, "We need to focus on those things that are most important, specifically precision and reliability in everything that we do." Echoing General Schwartz's words, we must continue to accomplish the mission by staying focused on the details of the job at hand, do it correctly and ensure our team does as well.
Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney McKinley, in his June 9, 2008, "Enlisted Perspective" said, "Each and every job is critical and Airmen must remain focused on the job at hand. We must give every task our most careful attention to detail. It's imperative for every Airman to perform their duties to our high Air Force standards and continue to concentrate on safety."
Team Charleston ... I have seen you perform to your fullest during our recent ORI, focusing in on even the smallest details in order to accomplish the mission. As we get back to our day-to-day jobs, it's crucial that we remain attentive to the tasks at hand, all while maintaining a safe work environment.
With next week's Family Day and Labor Day holiday ending the 101 Critical Days of Summer, we need to stay focused on safety. The leading causes of accidental deaths are off-duty personally-owned vehicle mishaps, water sports and drowning. Driving too fast or without adequate rest, not using seat belts or driving under the influence are poor decisions that cost lives.
Make smart decisions and look out for your fellow Airmen. Be smart, stay alive. Come back rested and ready to get "back to the basics."
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!