CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, yes we are at war, yes our primary mission is to support the Global War on Terrorism, yes we deliver freedom, yes we save lives and we take the fight to the enemy ... however, we still need to invest in ourselves whenever possible, and education is the way to do that.
I was honored to deliver the keynote address at the Southern Illinois University commencement exercises Saturday. Those men and women worked hard and sacrificed much to achieve their goals, and I am proud to have been a part of the ceremony. Congratulations to each of the 53 graduates who have reached this educational milestone. The investment they have made in themselves will have a far-reaching impact ... not only in their professional but also in their personal lives.
As Airmen, we all have the responsibility and obligation to excel in all that we do, not just in our commitment and job performance, but also in our self-improvement through education. If you are a motivated, career-oriented Airman or noncommissioned officer, the Community College of the Air Force can offer you a unique opportunity to earn a job-related, two-year Associate in Applied Science Degree. All Airmen should know that they are eligible for 100 percent tuition assistance. There are many reasons to take advantage of this benefit. All it takes is the initiative and the willingness to give of your time.
Last week, I spent a day with a young Airman who is a prime example of investing in himself through education. Senior Airman Spencer Stacey, a loadmaster in the 17th Airlift Squadron, spent a day as my shadow. During that time I had the opportunity to get to know this stand-out Airman and was very impressed by what I learned about him, the goals he has set for himself, and how he is achieving those goals. After completing two years of college and wanting to further his education, Airman Stacey entered the Air Force. He earned his CCAF degree shortly after enlisting, and soon thereafter enrolled in a four-year degree program. He is taking full advantage of his educational benefits and plans to complete his degree during his next enlistment.
We, as supervisors and commanders, have the responsibility of mentoring our subordinates. Airmen may oftentimes need some encouragement or direction in deciding to invest in themselves through education. What better way to mentor than to provide career guidance and counseling to your subordinates to set goals, to pursue those goals and to strive to be the best they can be in attaining those goals ... as senior leaders, it's your obligation and responsibility.
I would like to end by reminding you that the upcoming Labor Day weekend marks the end of the 101 Critical Days of Summer. Team Charleston has not had any fatalities this summer, but let's not forget that Labor Day weekend historically has the highest number of accidents and fatalities of the summer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the young Team Travis Airman who was killed in a motorcycle accident this past weekend.
Enjoy your extended weekend, but be careful, be vigilant and return safe and sound. Team Charleston needs you!
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!