'Perspective' highlights service before self

  • Published
  • By Janie Santos
  • Defense Media Activity - San Antonio
SAN ANTONIO (AFNS) --  In the latest "Enlisted Perspective, the Air Force's top enlisted Airman reflects on the Air Force core value of  "service before self" and how Airmen incorporate this value in everyday life.

"When we deploy; when we take a new assignment even though it isn't the location or the timeframe we may have wanted; when we must retrain out of our career field even though we are very happy in our present duty -- these are all examples of service before self," said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley. 

The chief emphasized that service before self does not mean neglecting family or personal growth.

"While Air Force duties take up a large chunk of our time, we must take every opportunity to spend time with our families and involve ourselves in their lives too," Chief McKinley said. 

"This principle of service before self also does not mean Airmen should not pursue higher education, participate in off-duty activities or pursue personal and professional development," the chief said.

For more information on Air Force core values, the 17-page booklet "United States Air Force Core Values" is available for download.

This "Enlisted Perspective" and other senior leader viewpoints can be found on the library section of Air Force Link.

Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link)

View the comments/letters page