Simmons encourages new aviators

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Lile
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Brig. Gen. Jesse Simmons, Georgia Air National Guard Commander, spoke to Columbus Air Force Base's newest Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training graduates Aug. 14 in the Kaye Auditorium.

During his speech Simmons spoke of stories from his personal experience relating to what it will take to succeed in a young pilot's new career.

"Tomorrow will just be the beginning of your career," He said. "It will require strength, courage and sacrifice to continue. You are required to live by the Air Force core values of integrity first, service before self and excellence in all you do. They will guide you to success."

Simmons continued to elaborate on the effects of attitude and hard work.

"You will need to move forward in the best way you can with the best attitude you can," Simmons said. "I have seen to many negative attitudes ruin a person's career and reputation. Continue to work hard and to do all you can to accomplish the mission. You need to have a lot of pride, confidence and a positive attitude and you need maintain that throughout your entire career."

Simmons explained just how much he enjoyed his career and congratulated SUPT Class 15-13 on making it to graduation day.

"Looking back on my career and on my life I can say with certainty; you who are about to put on the silver wings are about to start a wonderful adventure," He said. "Congratulations class 15-13, you made it. I know exactly what you have encountered over the past year and you should be proud of your accomplishments."

Simmons concluded his speech by telling a story about an air battle between two eagles and three crows. He explained that similar to the eagles, we as the Air Force rule the sky.

"Class 15-13, today you become a part of a great organization represented by those two eagles, an organization that owns the sky," Simmons said. "Take pride in that, keep confidence in that and always keep that positive attitude. Congratulations again and we are all proud of you. Thank you for what you are about to do for your family and your country."