COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- As I near the end of my Air Force career I would just like to say what an honor it has been to serve in the world’s greatest AF with the world’s greatest Airmen! I originally joined the AF for a 4 year commitment to go to school…28 years later it is hard for me to believe that I will be hanging up my uniform soon. Time sure flies when you are having fun. As I reflect back over my time at various assignments, there are a lot of wonderful faces and memories. I still keep in touch with a majority of those with whom I have crossed paths along the way. It is just who I am! If you know me than you know that I rarely meet a stranger and that I consider everyone my friend…even if they don’t.
To this day I still keep in touch with my very first supervisor, Charlene who is now retired, but someone who mentored me and invested in my development! I think that is true for all of us, good or bad, we learn from those who surround us. Hopefully by taking the good and deciding to leave the bad behind.
During my first assignment at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, we worked hard but we also had fun (who couldn’t find some fun at a place like that?) and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of folks to work with as a young airman basic from Newark, Ohio on her own for the first time. I met one of my best friends in Hawaii and have remained friends to this day.
When I made chief master sergeant at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, one of the first people I called was Charlene. She acted surprised at first but then quickly recovered by adding that she never had any doubt. I suppose it was a little bit of a shock to her, after all she had to talk me down one afternoon after getting irritated at one of my co-workers. She had insinuated that I had not done my assigned job for the week. But what she didn’t know was that I had already started seeing patients before lunch was over so I could get a patient back to work (I take great pride in my work, always have…after all my name is on it). I let her off the hook that day…
Another friend from Hawaii who was in the Navy and assigned to our medical clinic ended up retiring in Toledo, Ohio. He surprised me and drove down to Dayton to be at my chief promotion ceremony. He was alongside a few other friends who decided to make the trip! I have been blessed by so many generous and thoughtful people throughout my career and life. When I look out over the rough spots, (and there were rough spots), I would not go back and change a thing.
One of CAFB’s guest speakers for a pilot graduation recently stood at the podium and talked about how it’s the people that make the assignment and not the location. I certainly can attest to that. There are no truer words that have been spoken when it comes to military life.
Sure you will have tough times but the people are what will help you through it…if you let them. You must be willing to reach out to people, as hard as that may be at times, especially if you are new to a base. Whether it is in a professional or personal capacity, there is always someone standing by to help!
So, the next time you get an assignment, be it Edwards or Hickam AFB, I encourage you to give it a chance. I’m positive that once you get there, get settled, make some acquaintances and check out all the local area has to offer, you too, will find there really is not a “bad” assignment out there.
I certainly have enjoyed my time here at Columbus AFB not because of the 2 cashiers at Walmart downtown, or the hour drive to Target, but because of “YOU”! So, as I head out the door in April I want to tell you all a sincere “Thanks!” It’s been a privilege to guide, mentor and encourage you, thank you for putting up with my (ridiculous at times) humor and my H-U-S-T-L-E but more importantly the fun, the laughs, and your friendship! Remember, stay humble and wherever your career takes you…never quit…and hustle to the finish line!
Humble - We are all in this life together and chances are I did not get where I am today all by myself and neither did you. You have had people supporting you to get to where you are today…So always remain humble!
Understanding – To be an effective leader you must know and understand the people around you. If you do not understand a particular situation a co-worker is dealing with, how can you effectively counsel and help that person. It is important to know what motivates them, what family issues they may be having and challenges they are experiencing at work. Know and understand your people and show empathy and compassion when needed.
Sincerity – People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care! Be genuine in your interactions with people. Believe me they will know the difference.
Trust – The people you work with should trust that you will do what you have said you will do. They should be able to rely on you and trust what you are communicating as a leader to be true and factual. Trust is the cornerstone in which you build important relationships.
Leadership – A leader steps up in times of crisis and is able to think and act creatively in difficult situations. A leader inspires subordinates to perform and engage in achieving a desired goal. As leaders your primary purpose is mission accomplishment so always lead from the front. Lead by example and stay true to the type of leader you always wish you had and want to be.
Expectations - If people do not know your expectations, how can they perform and carry out the required mission and duties? It is important that expectations are established early and reinforced when necessary. You must set the bar high and never lower your standards for any reason. Remain consistent and fair and people will always know where you are coming from and expect nothing less from you.