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Back to basics -- Don't forget principles

  • Published
  • By Maj. Eric Turnbull
  • 305th Maintenance Operations Squadron
MCGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, NJ. --  I'm a firm believer that everything you need to know to be successful in the Air Force you learned in basic training. The principles engrained in us by the Military Training Instructor's from the moment we arrived at Lackland Air Force Base, until the day we left, set us up for success as United States Air Force Airmen. Think about who you were before you entered the Air Force and who you were upon completing basic training. I'm sure you would agree that the experience changed us in many different ways and molded us into the Airmen we are today. 

Let's take a look at some of the things instilled in us at basic training and how they apply in your current work environment. Here's the short list of what we learned at Basic Military Training School: discipline, Air Force core values, adherence to standards, customs and courtesies, respect for authority, and attention to detail. I could write an article on each one of these, so let's just look at a few. 

Discipline
Discipline is the foundation of military service and the first thing we learned from our MTI. We did what we were told and when we were told to do it. Does that still apply in your work center today? You bet. It's how we accomplish the mission. George Washington said, "Nothing is more harmful to the service, than the neglect of discipline; for that discipline, more than numbers, gives one army superiority over another." A well disciplined unit accomplishes their mission safely and efficiently. You can't have a well disciplined unit without well disciplined Airmen. 

Adherence to standards
There are many standards we are expected to follow, but the three I like to emphasize are standards of conduct, dress and appearance standards and physical fitness standards. Standards of conduct apply both on and off duty. We are expected to conduct ourselves professionally at all times. Those that fail to live up to our standards of conduct not only find themselves in trouble, but they hurt the unit's ability to function efficiently and effectively. Have you ever been in a unit where someone is under investigation for drug use? They're usually assigned to a "weeds and seeds" detail leaving other unit members to pick up the workload for them. What about dress and appearance standards? Your MTI told you your uniform must be clean, dry and serviceable and that you must adhere to grooming standards. He or she held open ranks inspections to ensure you were in compliance. What's your impression of someone who can't follow AFI 36-2903 standards? What does the American public think about the Air Force when they see someone who looks like a slob? It diminishes their confidence and admiration in all of us. How about physical fitness standards? A physically fit person gets sick less often, is more alert and productive, and is less stressed. 

Customs and courtesies
Did you ever say "yea" to your MTI? If so you probably only said it once. We all have superiors who deserve our respect. Saying "yes sir," "no sir," "yes ma'am," "no ma'am" coveys our respect to those in authority. Exchanging salutes shows mutual respect for our fellow military professional. Paying respect to our flag during retreat reminds us why we serve our country. Is that important today? Of course it is. We gain the respect of our leaders and fellow Airmen when we use customs and courtesies. 

Attention to detail
In basic training we had to fold our clothes a certain way and to precise dimensions. Beds had to have tight hospital corners, lockers had to be arranged according to specific guidance, and our MTI conducted dorm inspections to ensure we complied with directives. Our career fields require us to perform our jobs in a specific manner. Whether you are flying a mission, inspecting an aircraft, providing base security, processing paperwork, or a myriad of other tasks in your particular AFSC, attention to detail can impact the safety and well being of those around us. 

Remember how you felt when you graduated from basic training. You left with a sense of pride in what you just accomplished, and what you were going to do for the Air Force. You were a motivated, well trained and disciplined Airman. Are you still today? Whenever you see someone failing to follow the principles we learned in basic training be a good wingman and help get them back in line. Your MTI would be proud.