Commentaries

Nov. 9, 2014
How did we lose this young Airman?

She was an Airman Leadership School distinguished graduate, earned staff sergeant her first time testing, received all 5s on her Enlisted Performance Reports and took part in two deployments. Clearly she was a high-performing Airman. But, in her words, the Air Force had made it clear it didn't want
Oct. 21, 2014
American spirit, cutting edge technology equals revolutionary, relevant, responsive AF

I was privileged to attend and participate in the Air Force Association Air and Space Conference held near Washington, D.C. last month. It was simply outstanding. There were many inspirational moments. The pride that I felt during the presentation given by our Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh was
Oct. 16, 2014
My choice, my story, my pledge

As we prepare to kick-off this year's Combined Federal Campaign, think about the local charities and the services they provide. Think of the families who utilize those services. My family was one of them.
Oct. 15, 2014
Nurturing relationships and a culture of caring

When life gets challenging, stressors can build and conflicts can escalate, sometimes leading to abuse. Preventing domestic abuse is fundamental to basic relationship maintenance. Partners in healthy relationships work together every day to nurture their relationship, taking care to address issues
Sept. 10, 2014
Why I became a victim advocate for fellow Airmen

Editor's note: Though the author chose to remain anonymous, this is the real story of one Airman's experience with sexual assault. Be mindful that no two sexual assault stories are the same. If you are anyone you know has been or is currently a victim of any sexual crime, contact the Sexual Assault
Sept. 8, 2014
Suicide prevention: What you can do

September 8th through the 14th is National Suicide Prevention Week. However, many people are hesitant to get involved in the discussion on the topic of suicide prevention. This is concerning because the ability to get involved and intervene is critical to saving lives.
Aug. 1, 2014
Understanding sergeant's words: 'I've got your back'

Seeing the newly selected staff sergeants recently brought back memories of when I was selected for staff sergeant.Actually, my thoughts went to the night I graduated Airman Leadership School. As I crossed the stage after receiving my completion certificate, my co-workers gathered to congratulate me
April 15, 2014
The emotionless leader: Trusted and respected by Airmen

Our core values are more than the minimum standards by which we live; they assist us in getting the mission accomplished. To achieve that mission, we must develop our Airmen, not coddle them.
April 13, 2014
Goals: How many of us have them?

Have you set goals for your future? According to dictionary.com, "a goal is the result or achievement toward which effort is directed." Goals can be short or long-term, personal, professional, spiritual or physical, and are usually specific to a person or group. According to Dr. Gail Matthews, a
Nov. 14, 2013
Scandal has lessons for Airmen

Last week, Jonathan Martin, an offensive lineman on the Miami Dolphins football team, walked out and quit the team due to a perceived hostile work environment, allegedly characterized by demeaning, racially-biased communications and financial extortion by at least one team captain, and other senior