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Service before self

  • Published
  • By Col. Rick Martin
  • 305th Air Mobility Wing commander
MCGUIRE AFB, NJ. --  In last week's editorial I expressed how proud I am of the "Can Do" attitude that I see demonstrated around the base on a daily basis -- but I'm not alone! As a mobility center of excellence, Team McGuire is a gathering place for mobility experts from around the command and the Air Force. 

This past week we hosted several senior officers for the Director of Mobility Forces Course at the Air Mobility Warfare Center at Fort Dix. I'm happy to say that Maj. Gen. (ret.) Richard Mentemeyer, former 305th Air Mobility Wing commander, and Gen. Charles Reed, former 514th Air Mobility Wing vice commander, went out of their way to tell me that they have never seen Team McGuire looking better! Furthermore, they, and many other visitors, complemented me on how impressed they are with our "Can Do" attitude. In particular, they highlighted the superb attitude of excellence by our Services team at the billeting office and the professional Security Forces members serving as McGuire gate guards. 

We never know when we're being observed as we go about our daily duties. As General S.L.A. Marshall so aptly said: "A man has integrity if his interest in the good of the service is at all times greater than his own personal pride, and when he holds himself to the same line of duty when unobserved as he would follow if his superiors were present." I extend a hearty "thank you" to all Team McGuire members who display the "Can Do" attitude on a daily basis ... even when no one is watching! 

Thanks to all of you for putting General Marshall's words into action and setting such an outstanding example. I know General Duncan J. McNabb, Commander of Air Mobility Command, will see our "Can Do" attitude when he visits McGuire Monday for the dedication of the "U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center" (formerly Air Mobility Warfare Center) at Fort Dix. Additionally, we all look forward to recognizing the "Can Do" attitude at Team McGuire's annual awards next week. Congratulations to all award winners as they compete for the "best of the best" at Team McGuire! Can Do!