Hiss inspires new aviators

  • Published
  • By Airman Daniel Lile
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Col. Steven T. Hiss, Commander of Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps Detachment 890 at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, spoke to Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class 15-03 during their graduation ceremony Dec. 12 in the Kaye Auditorium at Columbus Air Force Base.

Hiss began by speaking on how great it was to return to Columbus AFB, and about his prior time spent here.

"I was assigned to Columbus AFB for the initial five years of my career, and it's always nice to return to your first Air Force home," Hiss said. "I was in UPT Class 88-01, and then remained at Columbus as a T-38 first assignment instructor pilot. For the last year of my tour, I was the Wing Commander's T-38 Executive Officer, and I helped move everyone into the current wing headquarters."

Hiss continued to speak on what it means to be an officer, and the importance of being a leader in today's Air Force.

"In our Air Force, you wear the rank on your shoulders, before the wings on your chests, and that is not by accident," Hiss said. "We need you to lead, and we will expect you to lead. It's true that the next few years will be self-focused, with you perfecting your craft, but it will not be long before you are flight lead and aircraft commander."

Hiss urged the young pilots to take their training seriously, and always work on improving their new skills.

"You're being given an awesome responsibility and you must train every day to be ready to fight," he said. "Flying is great fun, but the American people are counting on you to win when the time comes, so you must always train with purpose."

Hiss spoke on how all Airmen contribute to the fight, and all jobs in the Air Force are equally important.

"Along the way you will work with officers and enlisted Airmen; who maintain your flight equipment, log your flight hours and conduct your step briefs, launch recoveries and maintain your aircraft, ensure your personnel records are correct and take care of your and your family's medical needs," Hiss said. "You are not better or more important than any of these Airmen. There is no question that pilots are at the tip of the spear and get most of the credit, but it's a team effort. We cannot do our job if everyone else doesn't do theirs."

Hiss concluded his speech by talking about his current position, and how he enjoys passing on important lessons to cadets.

"This is my final U.S. Air Force assignment, and I could not think of a better way to end my career," he said.  "I am constantly inspired by the exceptional young men and women who still want to serve our country, and it's my absolute honor to help shape and mentor them any way I can.  I have 28 years of experience; the least I can do is pass on some of my lessons learned to hopefully keep a few lieutenants from making the same mistakes I made."