Commentary Search

  • Successful leading

    Over the past 19 years in the Air Force I worked for numerous leaders. Some it felt like a privilege and honor to work for because of the great leadership and others it was not as enjoyable. Despite the fact there are some very effective leaders and some not so effective, I venture to say that

  • Can do, will do

    Before my arrival here at Altus Air Force Base, I was well aware of the innovative attitude that is prevalent in everything that comes from this wing. This attitude stems from the positive motivation that resides at Altus. Everyone is on board with the wing-wide effort to accomplish our mission and

  • Maintaining the Human Weapons System

    It all started during an Elmendorf staff meeting. Seeing a major I didn't know, I introduced myself. In reply she spoke a sentence that still echoes in my mind. "Hello Chief, I'm Major Jennifer Halter, I am a crew chief on the human weapons system." Puzzled, I asked for clarification and she

  • The Airmen now aren’t like they used to be

    I've often heard the expression when an Airman gets into trouble, or faces an adverse action "The Airmen now aren't like they used to be." I then wonder what has actually changed from then until now. The Airmen today are still required to meet very selective entrance qualifications, most of which

  • The Appropriate Role of Religion

    The holiday season is a very special time. As an Air Force community we have Airmen celebrating a number of different religious events. Some celebrate the miracle of lights and the rededication of the Jewish temple. The Winter Solstice carries great significance to our Airmen who practice

  • Lorenz on Leadership -- Jessica's legacy

    There are certain times in our lives where a single moment or significant event causes us to pause . . . and reflect. These moments can catch us after both happy times and sad - after accomplishments of our own or those of others. Sometimes they catch us off guard, by surprise. More often, though,

  • INTEGRITY – GOT IT?

    Don't worry, this is not another core values lecture or trip down mentorship lane, although each in their own right are great concepts. No, this is simply about doing the right thing, and if you keep your integrity in-check, you've got a good shot at doing what's right time after time. Why an

  • Are You Making a Difference?

    During last week's Airman Leadership School graduation, I watched the members of class 10-B honor fellow Airmen who have given their lives over the past year supporting Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM. It was clear to me that each one of them had made a difference in the lives of those

  • Do Your Job!

    Do your job; do it to the best of your ability! It is just one way to go about your life. It is the one I recommend; it is also my First Pillar. Any of you who have had the opportunity (challenge) to hear me speak probably have heard me mention my Four Pillars of Success. At face value, you might

  • Lorenz on Leadership -- Spotting disasters

    "I can hear that train coming down the tracks." If you're like me, then you've heard people use this analogy to describe an inbound issue or challenge. We all face challenges each and every day -- they are nothing new. The challenges range in significance and in ability to impact our organizations.