CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, to keep pace with this premier airlift wing means we have to manage our busy schedules well. As we remain engaged in the war on terror, more and more demanding and challenging tasks are continually being assigned to us and we continually find ways to complete them.
Although many Airmen deploy, there are many more that stay behind and absorb the added responsibilities. Most times, this is in addition to their normally assigned duties. So, how is it that we can do so much and still be as successful as we are? I think, for many, wise time management has a little to do with it. How we manage the activities of the day plays a crucial role in our success. Spending too much time on nonessential tasks and allowing critical tasks to go undone, can jeopardize the mission. However, when our priorities are in order, our plans are set and we're focused on the task at hand, getting the job done is much simpler.
For those who are not the best at time management, there are many things we can do to improve our time management skills. A few of the things that have worked for me include making a list of the tasks to be accomplished, prioritizing the list and quickly identifying the one thing that must be done immediately. I believe identifying and completing the task that presents the nearest critical threat to success is important to do right away. In many situations, it buys a bit of breathing room before making the next decision. It's smart to tackle the things that are most urgent, but keep in mind unexpected changes; additional responsibilities can come at a moment's notice. A list also helps to ensure that the details get done and nothing is left to chance.
In November, I challenged everyone to memorize the Airman's Creed. Since then, I've been pleased to hear reports that many of you have risen to the challenge. Just recently, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. T. Michael Moseley sent a copy of the Airman's Creed for each squadron to display in the unit. It is his intent for every unit to embrace and proudly display the words that reflect our war-fighting ethos. According to General Moseley, "The creed is for all Airmen, officer and enlisted, and I want it engrained in the psyche of every Airman." I agree with General Moseley. I sense a strong spirit of camaraderie when members across our wing collectively recite the creed that unites us in our honorable profession.
This week we said farewell to Chief Master Sgt. Paul Zukoski, the 437th Operations Group superintendent. Chief Zukoski retired after 30 years of dedicated service to the Air Force and to the country. His accomplishments and successes were too many to number. With extensive knowledge and sound judgment, he led and inspired the enlisted men and women of the operations group, and in a broader extent, he was a positive influence on the entire wing. His strong leadership will be missed. We wish him and Marianne the best life has to offer as they begin a new chapter of their life.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!