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  • Every little bit helps

    Soon after the earthquake rocked Haiti Jan. 12 and changed the country forever, the reaction among many Airmen was the same: "How can we volunteer to go?" Like them, I wanted my chance to be a part of the relief effort. After all, how many people get that kind of experience? Thinking I probably

  • The Wilhelmshaven bombings: A mission of valor

    On Jan. 27, 1943, 91 B-17 and B-24 bombers from 8th Air Force launched from England to conduct America's first World War II strike against the Nazi fatherland. During this historic attack, 58 bombers reached their targets and dropped 137.5 tons of munitions on the port of Wilhelmshaven to destroy

  • It's the profession of arms, not the regression of arms

    As Airmen, nothing is average about our responsibilities. On the global stage, we are responsible for our nation's security, the safety of its citizens and the preservation of its way of life. To that end, and as stated in the Airman's Creed, we serve as "guardians of freedom and justice." For more

  • The ultimate battle: airline passenger vs. carry-on

    Most air travelers will admit they "people watch." When I travel, one of the more spectacular events I enjoy watching is when people attempt to find a place to store their overstuffed carry-on baggage. Sometimes a fierce bout takes place, much like a mixed martial arts match; nonstop punches, elbows

  • For Airmen, extraordinary things happen every day

    As military members, most of us understand we're a part of something special. I'm not sure I realized the full reality of just how unique our profession is until I stepped away from it. I didn't stay away long, but when I returned, it was with a new sense of appreciation.I served almost 10 years on

  • Developing a positive culture in the workplace

    I like motivating people. I enjoy taking a young Airman, new to the Air Force, and finding out what motivates him or her. Sometimes , I don't know what motivates an individual. During times like that, I try to reflect inward to figure out what motivates me. I'm not motivated by awards, decorations

  • A chief's reflection

    Dec. 1 marked the 50th anniversary of the chief master sergeant rank. I offer my congratulations to the Air Force.Holloman Air Force Base celebrated this momentous occasion by recognizing five former chiefs who were instrumental in making the rank of chief the most respected and prestigious in our

  • Remember others this holiday season

    As we begin the holiday season, all of us need to take a break and find time to recharge our mental and physical batteries. In light of last week's tragic events that left one of our young Airmen dead, I want to emphasize the importance of taking care of each other -- now more than ever.The concept

  • The high cost of freedom

    The cost of freedom cannot and should not be measured in mere dollars, or even in millions or billions of dollars. Today's large military budgets are spent on equipment, buildings, airframes, maintenance, personnel and training. These are the items that are most commonly thought of when people

  • What does 'People first, mission always' really mean?

    People first, mission always. You've heard it before, but do you know what it means? As warriors in the U.S. military, the requirement to defend our national interests will lead many of you to be away from your friends, families and loved ones, often for months at a time.At some point, you will most