16 Sep 2013

Surviving a DFAC closure on ramen noodles

In light of the recent news of the upcoming Dining Facility closure I tried to think back to some hard lessons learned as a young service member and came up with the following first sergeant true life story.While assigned to my first base, I was able to go back to my small town in Mississippi and retrieve my classic 1968 Chevy El Camino. Needless

5 Sep 2013

Maintenance backbone: Productions Managers at their finest

Barksdale's B-52H Stratofortress bomber presence felt around the world begins with a one-striped Airman who de-conflicts maintenance and ensures there are aircraft available to meet the mission. The Air Force Specialty Code 2R1X1, Maintenance Production Management, or Maintenance Plans, Scheduling and Documentation, is as much an art form as it is

15 Aug 2013

The indomitable will of an Airman

Each of us took an oath to serve our country and devote every part of our being to her defense. It takes a quick look through "the little blue book," AFI 1-1, Air Force Standards, to understand the gravity of this commitment. The first page streams valuable information about our mission, our core values and the oath. Of this information, the part

8 Aug 2013

Take time to explain why

Good communication is a key element of successful organizations. As leaders, managers, or supervisors, we're sometimes so focused on communicating the what or the how that we fail to explain why the work someone is doing is so important. Other times, we make decisions that impact work priorities or cause significant change, but don't first take

1 Jul 2013

To the Airmen of Global Strike Command: Enjoy a safe and enjoyable Independence Day

The Fourth of July is an opportunity to reflect on the courage exemplified by American patriots who pursued independence and gave birth to our great Nation. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the freedoms and opportunities afforded us in this wonderful country and to salute the men and women of our military who continue to stand ready to defend

28 Jun 2013

Readiness is key to financial fitness

Imagine a technical sergeant who retired after 20 years of service, had little to no savings, and the civilian job he had lined up before retirement was cut due to tightening federal budgets. He would be facing 70 percent pay cut without enough income to pay his mortgage. Now picture a staff sergeant who is debt free and separating from the Air

14 Jun 2013

Achieving “Bare Metal” success

"The actions that a caring individual makes which may seem like nothing to him or her can have such a positive impact on the recipient." (undisclosed Master Sgt. (Ret), 30 May 13). These are the unsolicited statements which consistently find their way back to Airmen who take ownership and pride in the mission. After a year of commanding the 2nd

7 Jun 2013

Filling squares

As Airmen, we are more than familiar with the need to fill the proverbial squares as we strive to progress in our military career. To be competitive for awards and promotion we must commit ourselves to goals such as education, passing the fitness exam, and community service. It is through completion of these expectations and requirements that we

31 May 2013

Volunteering--What motivates you?

I just ran a marathon. Well, several actually. And some half marathons and triathlons. Why? To support those that can't.Over the years, I've seen many people volunteer with many organizations. Some did it because they thought it would help their chances of promotion. Others did it because their supervisors made them do it. Then there were those

23 May 2013

Remember our legacy

During the last weekend of May we honor the men and women who have died while serving in the United States military. It is a day of reflection for all Americans, but Memorial Day holds a special place in the hearts of veterans, those currently serving in the military, and their families. Each generation's legacy of achievement, courage and