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Telling the Air Force story

  • Published
  • By Maj. Eric Turnbull
  • 305th Maintenance Operations Squadron
MCGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. --  While growing up, I often heard stories about my father's service in the Army and my uncles' experiences during World War II. Their accounts provided me more than just a history lesson. They instilled a sense of pride in me about our country and no doubt influenced my decision to join the Air Force. 

Recently, I returned from a deployment to Southwest Asia. When we showed up at the passenger terminal to begin our journey home, the wing commander took a few minutes to shake our hands, thank us for our service and give us a pamphlet highlighting some of the wing's accomplishments during our rotation. The one thing I remember most though was his words. He said to make sure we "tell our story." He knew the importance of educating those back home about what the Air Force is doing for our country, especially in regards to fighting the Global War or Terrorism. I took his message to heart and spoke to children at two elementary schools about working and living in a foreign country. I think the students enjoyed seeing pictures of camels, lizards, and other desert animals the most, but they did get a sense of what we are doing. They thanked me for my service, and I could tell they felt pride in our country and Air Force. 

Hollywood puts out many movies and TV shows about military life and events. Often they get it right, but sometimes they do not. Many times, it is hard for viewers to separate fact from fiction. This is another reason why we should tell our story. Not long ago, HBO Films came to McGuire AFB to film part of a movie called "Taking Chance". It tells the story of a Marine's final journey home. I jumped at the chance to play an extra in the film because I believe it is important to tell that story. Having actual military members participate in these projects helps ensure the film makers get it right. 

The news media covers military activities both home and abroad. Most of the time their reports are accurate, but without our input important details may get lost. One caution, though. When speaking to the media or any group where you appear to be representing the Air Force, make sure you are clear to do so. You want to be sure you have the proper authority to discuss certain topics and your words are not taken out of context. Always check with Public Affairs before a speaking engagement or talking with the media. 

Whatever you do and wherever you have been, you have a story to tell. Look for opportunities to share your experiences and educate those in our community about the Air Force mission. We do truly amazing things for people in our country and around the world. The Air Force saves lives every day through humanitarian missions. Our Air Mobility Command commander once said that when people around the world see an airlift aircraft with the American flag on the tail land in their country, they know hope has arrived. Our Air Force members also improve the lives of people both home and abroad through community outreach projects. Unfortunately, the public does not always hear about these good deeds. Telling your story helps the average citizen appreciate what we do. 

I'm proud to tell people about the Air Force and the things we do. By telling our story, we eliminate false perceptions, build trust and gain support of the American public. It may even inspire some folks to join our great organization. So let me ask you, what's your story?