Retired general speaks at SUPT class 08-12 graduation Published Aug. 4, 2008 By Airman Josh Harbin 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Retired Maj. Gen. Harold Cross, former Adjutant General of Mississippi National Guard, addressed twenty new pilots at the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training class 08-12 graduation at Kaye Auditorium Friday. General Cross offered his words of wisdom and advice to the newest Air Force pilots for all in attendance. Quoting words of poet Emily Dickinson, General Cross said, "we never know how high we are until we are called to rise; and then we are true to plan, our statures touch the skies." General Cross spoke of the ordeals facing them, such the road they face into becoming genuine leaders and the continuing need to learn more about your mission and yourself. He said, "these silver wings do not make you a leader." "These are the times which try men's souls," said General Cross in reference to the Global War on Terrorism. General Cross served in the Air Force for 40 years as a pilot. His many decorations include the two United States Air Force Distinguished Service Medals and two Legions of Merit. He has amassed over 5,000 flying hours in various aircraft and participated in Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama and Operation DESERT STORM. He was most recently awarded the National "Save the Day" award from the American Red Cross for his efforts during Hurricane Katrina and has been selected for the G.V. Sonny Montgomery Leadership Award. He is also a published author on the American Civil War. In his final comments, General Cross said, "know thy self, know your mission, and most importantly, know your people. Quoting Mark Twain, Gen Cross encouraged the graduates to "throw off the bow line and move from safe harbor and catch the trade winds in your sails..."
