HomeNewsCommentaries

Commentary Search

  • Katrina allows Airmen to help in new way

    I have always heard the Air Force takes care of its own in times of need. I have also seen this put into practice when Airmen and their families are struck by tragedy. The events following Hurricane Katrina last year showed me this concept in a brand new way as 347th Rescue Wing Airmen put their skills to the test; not to help their fellow military

  • Fit to fight is not just about being 'fit'

    Many of you have probably noticed a disturbing trend in our education system. To focus on academics, schools are slowly eliminating recess and physical education periods. Additionally, traditionally accessible after-school sports are becoming more exclusive, weeding out the non-athletes through grueling try-outs. So, why is this a concern for not

  • Summer drowning high risk to children

    The young boy peered up at me through the clear waters of Florida's Ichetucknee Spring on the day before my 31st birthday. He looked calm, peaceful and somewhat serene. I asked a nearby adult if the child was OK, and he told me yes, that the boy had been playing in the chilly waters of this natural swimming hole earlier. But when air bubbles rose

  • A patriot's love for the United States

    In a way, to me the 4th of July is more like Valentine's Day. It is an opportunity for me to reflect on that great object of my affection, the United States of America. My wife is a very understanding woman. She knows that I love her dearly and she is the center of my world. But she also knows that I have a passionate, all-consuming love for

  • It’s your Air Force

    During our first years of service as Airmen, we are taught basic technical skills and military bearing. Then, somewhere along the line, we are presented with opportunities for leadership at the element, section, flight or squadron level. But, don’t wait until somebody attaches a certain duty title to your name to be a leader. There are many

  • AF mission: It goes beyond the job

    Commanders and leaders are always reminding us how important we are to “the mission.” But, how many of us really know what “the mission” is? I remember being a young senior airman sitting in a commander’s call at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., and hearing the question, “Do you understand how you contribute to the mission?” Eyes glazed over, heads

  • Leadership: art of influence, not force

    Your supervisor comes into the office and demands that you have "Airman Jones’" enlisted performance report finished by the close of business "or else!" So, you do as you’re told. It’s not your best effort, but at least the boss will be off your back. Months later, your new supervisor tells you he really wants you to finish "Airman Smith’s" EPR

  • Loyalty: A matter of choice

    In my experience, loyalty isn’t earned – it’s learned. I used to think I became loyal to someone once they earned my trust and respect. Now, I believe loyalty comes from being teachable and submissive to those placed in authority over me. I also believe that saying, “I’m loyal,” is like saying, “I am a fast runner;” both comments can only be

  • ACC commander delivers holiday message

    This year’s holiday season marks the 4th year of combat operations for the United States in the Global War on Terrorism … from fighting terrorists abroad while defending our freedom at home, to executing disaster relief for thousands of our citizens, I’m proud of the job you do as ACC Airmen to defend and sustain our great nation.We need to enjoy

  • Modern day patriots are all around us

    We often read in our history books about patriots -- what often comes to mind is someone like Mel Gibson dressed in early day garb as he was in the Patriot. We may even think of soldiers in rags in the snow at Valley Forge facing an overwhelming force of British regulars.What about modern day patriots? Are there such people who risk their lives
RSS