Commentaries

'The Elephant in the Room'
December 14, 2012 — This commentary is in regard to the recently published Air Force chief of staff memo and corresponding articles, "Combating Sexual Assault in the Air Force," "CSAF directs Air Force-wide inspection," and "CSAF talks leadership with wing commanders." I've got chills up my spine at the very deliberate leadership focus by our new CSAF, and I certainly... MORE

Joint base community members should exercise holiday sensitivity
December 6, 2012 — The holiday season is here and many people are currently planning for festivities and fun times. While planning your events and spreading the word, keep in mind the diversity factor of the individuals within your organization. Remember, everyone does not celebrate Christmas and try to be proactive and sensitive to the needs of all. Instead of... MORE

Deputy commander learns from Pearl Harbor
December 6, 2012 — Sunday, Dec. 7, 1941. President Franklin D. Roosevelt called it "a date which will live in infamy." The Japanese Navy's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor shook America to its foundation. The attack killed 2,400 Americans, injured more than 1,280, damaged all eight of the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet battleships (four sank) and resulted in the United... MORE

Starting on the right foot with FTAC
October 25, 2012 — Oct. 1 marked the day my First Term Airmen's Center course began. I walked into the classroom, gawking at all the new faces and immediately asking others how they expected the course to be. Several times prior to starting I was told I needed to find a way to stay awake during class, so I began FTAC with very low expectations.Other students were... MORE

2012-13 influenza season: prevention is key
October 25, 2012 — We are now well into fall and, flu season is upon us once again. Influenza is a very contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms depending on your age, immunity status or health history. One question frequently asked is, "Why do I need to get immunized against the flu every year?" The answer is the flu virus strain changes... MORE

Managing chaos with training, trust, teamwork
October 25, 2012 — TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. - I recently had the opportunity to attend a large joint exercise with the majority of my squadron and other members from our group. The start of the exercise was a large airdrop insertion of over 1,200 U.S. Army paratroopers from 21 Air Force aircraft. It was a complex scenario that involved a large number of Army and... MORE

Starting on the right foot with FTAC
October 24, 2012 — Oct. 1 marked the day my First Term Airmen's Center course began. I walked into the classroom, gawking at all the new faces and immediately asking others how they expected the course to be. Several times prior to starting I was told I needed to find a way to stay awake during class, so I began FTAC with very low expectations.Other students were... MORE

To our veterans: thank you
October 19, 2012 — As November approaches, our nation prepares to honor our veterans. Like many Amercians, I have a great appreciation for the many service members of all ranks and services who raised their hand and volunteered to serve, especially those who did so in time of conflict. You have all contributed to the history of our nation, and I can never portray my... MORE

An ‘O-flight’ to remember
October 19, 2012 — The alarm goes off; it's 2:30 a.m. Memories of the old days working in medical evacuation flash by. Soon I realize I'm awake because of my new mission - teaching the next generation. Today I get to take 40 of my Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. cadets on a KC-10 Extender orientation flight at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. As I start my... MORE

To our veterans: thank you
October 18, 2012 — As November approaches, our nation prepares to honor our veterans. Like many Amercians, I have a great appreciation for the many service members of all ranks and services who raised their hand and volunteered to serve, especially those who did so in time of conflict. You have all contributed to the history of our nation, and I can never portray my... MORE