Chief master sergeant of the Air Force visits Kunsan Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Alice Moore
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, South Korea (AFPN) --  The chief master sergeant of the Air Force spoke with Kunsan Air Base Airmen about recapitalization, modernization and quality of life for Airmen and their families March 24 here. 

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley also discussed force shaping challenges and emphasized why it's important for Airmen at all levels to look for better and smarter ways to accomplish the mission. 

"We've been on the road toward recapitalization and modernization because our aircraft average 24.5 years of age. One aspect of funding recapitalization and modernization was a downsizing for the force," he said. "So as we downsize, we also need to find ways we can be more efficient. If we're doing processes we really no longer need to do anymore, we should find ways to stop doing them. These efficiencies will make us a better Air Force." 

Along with downsizing, Chief McKinley addressed concerns regarding uniform changes. He discussed the new airman battle uniform and the upcoming virtual uniform board. 

"It's 2008 and the ABU isn't required to be worn until 2011. I think across the Air Force, Airmen can't wait to get the ABU. That's great news," he said. "Airmen want to be able to take it out of the dryer and put it on and not have to send it to the cleaners. This can cost about eight bucks for full dry-cleaning service. Airmen can take the ABU out of the dryer and put it on. That gives time and money back to our Airmen." 

Chief McKinley also said Air Force officials will conduct the first virtual uniform board in May. 

"We haven't had a uniform board since August 2005. However, right now every Airman can go to the virtual uniform Web site and provide input on what uniform changes they think the Air Force should make," he said. "We'll compile all that data and then hold our uniform board to determine the right improvements." 

The chief also took the time to address quality-of-life concerns during his visit. He said senior leaders remain committed to taking care of Airmen and their families. 

"We all believe quality of life is important," Chief McKinley said. "We have committed a lot of money over the years to make sure we provide the highest quality of life for our Airmen and their families possible."  

The Air Force's No. 1 enlisted Airman also spoke about the importance of supervisors. 

"Supervisor can help improve their Airmen's quality of life by patting their Airmen on the back and saying 'thank you' for a job well done," the chief said. "Quality of life is more than just dollars. Caring is free, so I advise all supervisors to get out there and show our Airmen that you care about them. Find out about their family and how they're doing. See how they're doing with their educational pursuits and recognize them when they're doing a great job. When they're not doing a great job, pull them aside tell them what they're doing wrong and get them pointed in the right direction. I think all of that leads to helping our Airmen out and letting them know we truly care about them." 

Chief McKinley serves as the personal adviser to the secretary of the Air Force and the chief of staff on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale and proper utilization and progress of the enlisted force. 

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

View the comments/letters page