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Learn from the past, Invest in the future...
Posted 6/22/2012 Updated 6/22/2012
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Commentary by Lt. Col. Christopher H. Baird
2nd Bomb Wing Command Post
6/22/2012 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Future successes are a factor of present performance developed from past experience; a phrase simply, stated when put to words. But to put it into action takes on a whole new meaning. Where will you be two years, five years, or even ten years from now? No one really knows, and unless you have been hanging out and spending quality time at the palm reading store, your guess is as good as mine.
With the summer months upon us, the men and woman of the 2nd Bomb Wing are faced with numerous changes in personnel and leadership. These changes, particularly changes in leadership, can create many uncertainties about the future for many Airmen in the wing. For those new to these changes, I can assure you there is nothing to fear; the 2nd Bomb Wing, along with its mission partners, have experienced many successes in the past and will continue to be "Second to None" as we look to the future.
There is no surprise when I say that very little can be accomplished by a group of individuals. However, a team, with each member working toward a common goal, using his or her strengths to the benefit of the team, can accomplish anything.
Past: The 2nd Bomb Wing has a reputation for excellence that can be traced back to some of its units' participation in World War I. Barksdale Air Force Base is a goldmine of talent and experience and I am truly honored to be a part of its heritage. However, as we march forward, we must proceed with extreme caution.
Too often we can find ourselves reflecting on our past accomplishments and becoming complacent in our current job. Just remember, once you have reached the top there are only two options that remain; fall on your face, or continue to strive to be the best and remain on top. We must never forget the importance of learning from past experience, whether good or bad, and use those lessons for continued success into present and future operations.
Present: As the saying goes, "You are only as good as the current snapshot in time." We must not fall victim to complacency and lose the momentum to success. The men and women of Barksdale have proven themselves time and time again, so we must now use those lessons learned from past experiences to set the example for everyone.
We must stay focused on the job at hand. The desire for continued knowledge and experience should be an ongoing activity. Every day you should strive to learn something new, not only within your field of expertise, but about yourself. We must continue to mentor the younger members and set the example through exceptional job knowledge and proficiency, for the younger members hold the key to the success of future operations.
Future: The highest display of unit ownership and pride is a sincere interest and investment in its future. We know that the stronger the foundation of an organization, the stronger the structure.
The men and women of the Mighty Deuce and its mission partners have established a strong foundation through hard work and determination; now we must work even harder to maintain it and prepare for the many challenges ahead. We must stress continued emphasis on quality training and job proficiency today in order to conquer the challenges of tomorrow.
Never hesitate to reflect on past accomplishments, but be cautious not to forget the lessons that put us at that level of achievement. Use the past to build a solid foundation and strive for continued success.
It's this attitude that will keep the Mighty Deuce on top, "Second to None," and allow us to set the example for present operations and to prepare for the many challenges ahead.
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