CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, the Air Force Professional Development Guide defines leadership as "the art of influencing and directing people to accomplish the mission."
Many have studied this definition and even memorized it, but leadership in action is what people really remember. The definition provides a powerful word picture, but there is no substitution for actual leadership. I believe two of the most influential aspects of active leadership are setting a positive example and getting involved.
I see positive examples of leadership in action in every rank every day. Many of you are engaged in activities that play a large role in making Team Charleston successful.
One example of your active leadership was evident in the planning and execution that the Air Force Ball committee displayed to make that event a success. I think it's safe to say that all who attended had a wonderful time. Another positive example is that the booster club's executive committee members are hard at work planning several upcoming holiday events.
In addition to setting the example, I often stress the importance of getting involved both on and off base. As you can imagine, leadership in action is more than high-visibility projects and programs. It also speaks to the efforts of those who see the value in the simpler activities that matter as well.
Every time we travel down Cross County Road, we can see the work of the Top 3 who has adopted this stretch of road. Once a quarter, they lead an ambitious cleanup effort that helps to brighten this area of our community.
Then there are those who are active in Habitat for Humanity and after-school mentoring across the local area, just to name a few.
Leadership in action is about your willingness to get involved and to make a difference. Each time you step up and get involved to meet a community need, you set an example to be followed. That's leadership ... and as others see your example, I believe many will be motivated to find ways to get involved and put their leadership qualities in action as well.
Congratulations to our recent NCO Academy and Senior NCO Academy graduates. You have all just crossed a significant milestone in your military careers. As you progress, the knowledge you gain will enhance your leadership abilities and your prospects for success.
I was fortunate to have attended the recent NCOA graduation to support 11 of Charleston's technical sergeants. I spent some time with the students soon after they completed class to get their impressions while their experience was still fresh in their minds. They felt it was intense, but worthwhile. One person described it as, "Airman Leadership School on steroids."
Some of the most significant memories appeared to be the camaraderie they built with each other. Many felt that the relationships they established will prove to be invaluable. While in class, they too seized the chance to practice leadership in action when they donated time to projects at the veterans administration and the local YMCA.
All were pleased that they rose to meet this professional development challenge. I'm sure they will put their new-found skills to great use.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!