Operations Group Commander speaks at CGOC luncheon

  • Published
  • By Airman John Day
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  A luncheon was held for members of the Company Grade Officers Council June 10, at the 37th Flying Training Squadron heritage room at Columbus Air Force Base. Col. Brett Pennington, Commander of the 14th Operations Group, was the guest speaker at the luncheon.

The CGOC is an organization made up of second lieutenants, first lieutenants and captains that promote the professional development, camaraderie and morale of CGOs on Columbus AFB.

Capt. Shailu Joshi, 14th Medical Support Squadron Medical Readiness Flight Commander and President of the Columbus Air Force Base CGOC, organizes and attends each event put on by the CGOC.

"Developing and working with the CGOC has been one of the most gratifying, non-work related, experiences I have had at Columbus AFB," said Joshi. "It has given CGOs a chance to meet and learn from each other and their leadership."

One event put on by the CGOC is a luncheon. The CGOC luncheon is a regularly scheduled lunch meeting held for members that allows them to speak with experienced individuals about career advice and progression. This event also allows members from different squadrons to interact with each other.

"The interconnectedness allows officers to see the challenges other groups or squadrons might experience and gives a better understanding and appreciation of one another's work," said Joshi. "I would like to see the CGOC grow, here at Columbus."

At this month's luncheon, Pennington shared some of his experiences with leadership throughout his career and the impact that others have made in his life.

"We all encounter leaders over our career who we particularly respect and admire," said Pennington. "They may be commanders or supervisors, but they may also be peers or even subordinates. They may be civilian friends or family members. Regardless, ask yourself, what trait do you respect and admire most in them? Look for opportunities to emulate that characteristic and make it your own."

At the end of the mentoring discussion, Pennington opened up the floor for questions. He was asked for his opinion and advice on what CGOs should do in this time of force reduction.

"These are undoubtedly challenging times for the Air Force," said Pennington. "But I ask you to do all you can to truly understand the issues, understand the measures that are being taken to address them, and help lead the Air Force through it."