Values endure winds of change
by Chief Master Sgt. Randy Auld
14th Flying Training Wing command chief master sergeant
2/13/2004 - COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. (AFPN) -- As I awoke this morning, I reflected on all the changes that are happening in the Air Force.
Key initiatives such as transformation and force development are examples of ideas that demand a new way of thinking to get our jobs done faster, cheaper and more efficiently, while creating a new vision for developing our most valuable resource -- our people -- for success in the future.
The changes aren't just limited to how we develop our people or the thought process for performing our jobs. We are also evaluating our utility uniform requirements and are currently conducting a wear test of the proposed replacement.
Naturally, when you consider upcoming changes, it certainly causes you to look at the effects of the past.
Over the past 26 years, I have had the opportunity to "transform" from the typewriter to computer automation. Uniforms have changed as well, moving from blue stripes on cotton fatigues to subdued stripes on permanent press battle dress uniforms.
The new service dress was a controversial change, replacing the older "Combo 1" style adopted from the Army days. Let's not forget about name tags, either, from the sewn on version in blue and white to subdued then to the aircrew style name tags and back again to subdued.
Technology and uniforms aren't the only changes the Air Force has made over the years.
The Berlin Wall is down and the Cold War is over. We have moved from a predominantly home-based force posture, both stateside and overseas, to a more dynamic, quick-reaction force designed to deploy on a moment's notice anytime, anywhere.
Our smaller, focused air and space expeditionary forces remain challenged as they never have been before.
Winds of change? Or are they? When looking back, and then forward, you quickly realize changes are only skin deep.
Although we operate with different weapons systems and procedures, and we dress differently, our core foundation has not changed. Even before our Air Force formally established its core values -- integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do -- we strived to instill those values in our people.
If you have doubts, ask a World War II veteran or those who sacrificed so much during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Desert Shield and Desert Storm demanded no less. Today, the global war on terrorism again proves our sincere commitment to our core values.
Yes, the way we look and act on the outside may have changed, but not our internal drive and dedication to duty, honor and country -- three precepts that sustain the devotion to our core values.
Yes, winds of change are here. However, as history documents, the United States of America and its men and women in uniform will continue supporting freedom.
When you think about all the changes coming down the road, remember duty, honor and country. Press on with pride knowing that integrity, service before self and excellence is what we do -- and no one in the world does it better.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Printable story
E-mail story
Advanced Search