As an Airman at a new base, it can be confusing to figure out how to meet new people, develop yourself in your career and get involved. Luckily, Luke Air Force Base has many organizations that can help you navigate through not only how to develop yourself professionally, but help you network and make new…

I walked into a recruiter’s office looking for a change in my life on Feb. 11, 1999. What I knew about the Air Force was very little except what my two older brothers had told me. It all happened fast as I started my first day of Basic Military Training 14 days later. Once I…

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — Throughout our military careers, we often talk of being a volunteer force, a subset of our culture that has volunteered to serve our country in the profession of arms. Without disrespect to anyone currently in uniform or those that have served before me, I have always been in conflict…

“Example is leadership. Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.” ~ Albert Schweitzer We all set an example for others everyday as we live our lives. We may set a good example or we may be the poster child of what not to do. No matter your age,…

“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.” ~ Andy Rooney Andy Rooney poignantly describes what many families experience each year. He highlights what parents understand all too well – the reality that childhood is fleeting, that…

I was going through some old files, and I found a few notes that were written to me by the comptroller of a major command on several different occasions. One letter conveyed his best wishes on my birthday. A second one thanked me and my unit for our hospitality during his recent visit to the…

Many years ago I was just starting out as a young flight chief and senior NCO. I had traveled back east to attend the Maintenance Production Superintendent Course and was headed back home. After I dropped off my rental car I hopped on the bus that would take me back to the terminal. It is…

Throughout our time in the Air Force, whether for four years or 30, we are presented with many opportunities. The places we go and the duties we learn to do all lend themselves to new experiences that most Americans will never get. Those opportunities can be a key component to your success in the Air…

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 and shake my hand. My supervisor, Staff Sgt. Todd…