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  • The true spirit of a warrior knows no uniform

     Many American military leaders have led heroically in our nation's history: Washington, Lee, Grant, Patton, Ridgway, Schwarzkopf and Jumper. However, the name Doolittle may well be the most deserving of the typical laudatory embellishments that amateur historians often impose on these men. Here's a

  • Leadership principles from a baseball legend

    "All of these people sitting here--they want people to be proud of them. They want their families to be proud of them," said Tommy Lasorda as he spoke of the Airmen sitting at his table for lunch. I had a few moments to speak with Lasorda, in between him signing baseballs and enjoying his food at

  • Leadership during tough fiscal times

     We are currently faced with unprecedented budgetary constraints driven by sequestration and a government shutdown. The strain is taking a toll on our people, yet we persevere, going above and beyond every day. Winning amongst constant challenge can only be accomplished through continued

  • Learned leadership

     Leadership, in 500 words or less, WOW! How do you encapsulate such a dynamic and important subject in that small amount of space? Do they lead from the front or push from the rear? Do they issue clear, concise direction or vague, rambling dissertations?Leaders are a product of their upbringing and

  • The power of influence

    As I prepare for my position of leadership as a deputy director of a force support squadron, it has become very clear to me that mentoring is the key to an organization's success. My mentors have shown me that being a mentoring leader and not a dictator builds unity, loyalty and dedication to the

  • Maintain Balance: Strengthen your rubber band

    Managing life in the Air Force is all about balance. As we get pulled one way or another, we are forced to balance the good with the bad, the exciting with the boring, and the fun with the monotonous. Our balance is kept in check by a number of things, to include family, friends, and basewide

  • Thoughts on a successful military career

    As I reflect on my 17 years in the military, there are certain sustained truths that have consistently remained solid in my mind. An easy validation check comes whenever given the opportunity to preside over a retirement ceremony. As I speak with pending retirees and look back over their careers,

  • Seeking help - Who is on your team?

     I have the best job in the Air Force as an active duty social worker. I work with people who come to talk to me when they are feeling overwhelmed or consumed and other things that used to get them through the tough times just aren't working anymore. My favorite part of my job is I get to see those

  • Air Force Contracting follows guiding principles

    The 97th Contracting Squadron's mission is to provide for all contract requirements through various procurement instruments to enable mission accomplishment and protect the rights and dollars of the American taxpayers. Our unit vision is to acquire timely, superior services and products to enable

  • Lights out, gears up … Airfield comes alive at night

    When the sun sets most folks are settling down with their families, eating dinner or relaxing while watching their favorite television show, but for others it is time to work.We don't just forge combat mobility forces during the day at Altus AFB. The flight line and airspace continue to thrive even