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Developing leaders through selfless service

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Mike Elson
  • 6th Airlift Squadron
McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. --  How do you build a great leader? This question is a daily challenge for the United States Air Force. The key to unlocking leadership is practice. McGuire's 6th Airlift Squadron needs leaders at every level to accomplish the demanding mission of combat airlift. 

One way the unit achieves the lofty goal of building leaders is simply by encouraging younger members to lead. At least twice a month the halls of the 6th AS are scoured for the few individuals who aren't flying, training, or deploying. A challenge was issued to this small pool of candidates in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller. 

The challenge is: to help Habitat for Humanity International combat the issues of poverty and inadequate housing. Habitat has built and rehabilitated more than 300,000 houses with partner families, helping house more than 1.5 million people. The 6th AS is simultaneously working its third and fourth homes for Habitat. 

The work is tough, but the need is unquestionable and every other week teams of 10-12 people experience the rewards of helping those less fortune. Demanding work and assisting those in need are hallmarks of the Air Mobility Command mission. In many ways, Habitat parallels the skills and rewards our Air Force demands and delivers. 

For team leaders who might lack construction skills and be junior in rank, holding the team together can be a real challenge. However, just like other Air Force opportunities, there is always a mentor nearby who can provide the needed guidance and encouragement. Example is still the most effective teaching tool! 

On-the-job site work moves quickly into high gear and safety briefings are followed by construction plans. Team leaders translate plans into manpower requirements and tasks are divided among the group. Soon the job site is a symphony of hammering, sawing and coordinated action. 

Sunset demands tools are inventoried and the team assembles for a quick photograph documenting progress. The leadership skills refined between the 6th AS and Habitat refine young leaders and prepare for the unpredictable but demanding future. 

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity, visit www.habitat.org/how/historytext.aspx.