May 19, 2006

Just another day at the office

LANGLEY AFB, VA. — In a recent phone conversation with my brother, we were discussing the events of our day; nothing too exciting or earth shattering. In other words, as my brother said, “It was just another day at the office.” After we hung up, I got to thinking about his comment. My brother is a police officer in southern California. On this particular day, his day

May 11, 2006

Obedience, ethical loyalty

LANGLEY AFB, VA. — As leaders, we must never make our people choose between permitting unethical actions (Integrity Last) or hurting their career by confronting unethical actions (Integrity First). As followers, we must always confront unethical actions without fear (Integrity First) for the sake of all affected by the unethical act. If I can help make a difference

May 1, 2006

We all start somewhere, even Homer was once illiterate

LANGLEY AFB, VA. — Before we can run, we must walk. Before we can walk, we must crawl. Cliché – yes. True – definitely. I know because I watched my daughters grow. First, they’re learning to roll from side-to-side. Then, they get strong enough to push themselves up and scoot across the floor. Finally, they summon the courage to stand and face humility if they

May 1, 2006

Don't forget the big TOE

LANGLEY AFB, VA. — If you have seen the movie “Stripes,” the classic comedy about the Army, you may recall the scene in which Bill Murray volunteers to lead his platoon. “An Army without leaders is like a foot without a big toe,” he said to his fellow Soldiers. “And Sergeant Hulka (their platoon sergeant) isn’t always gonna be there to be that big toe for

April 20, 2006

The problem is -- somebody else won't do it

LANGLEY AFB, VA. — Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow is a dirty base. It’s not the fault of the Marines and civilian employees who live and work there, it has to do with the desert winds of the Mojave and the base’s proximity to the only highway connecting Las Vegas to Los Angeles. People cruising to the ocean or to Vegas for a little fun use Barstow as a pit stop

April 20, 2006

Loyalty: A matter of choice

LANGLEY AFB, VA. — In my experience, loyalty isn’t earned – it’s learned. I used to think I became loyal to someone once they earned my trust and respect. Now, I believe loyalty comes from being teachable and submissive to those placed in authority over me. I also believe that saying, “I’m loyal,” is like saying, “I am a fast runner;” both comments can only be

April 17, 2006

Purpose-driven Airmen live with hope

Langley AFB, Va. — Living with hope and confidence is the only way to really live. Everything else is just “operative,” as we say. Here are three very important questions that I’m sure you’ve asked yourself many times throughout life: Who am I? This questions our identity Do I matter? This questions our importance What is my place in life? This deals with our impact

April 17, 2006

Airmen should take advantage of their benefits

Langley AFB, Va. — The number one reason for joining the military has always been education. The military offers unmatched educational support which, taken advantage of, will provide Airmen a solid foundation for future growth in the military or civilian life. Continuing education is important to every member of the expeditionary Air Force – exposure to new ideas and

April 3, 2006

Walking: We’re made for it!

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Virginia — “Long before humans roamed the earth ...”Stop right there. If you look closely at this sentence, you might find the key to a healthy lifestyle. Human’s roamed the earth. Believe it or not, early humans were not the sedentary beings that we have become. They didn’t drive cars, sit behind computers all day or even have to go to a gym to stay in

April 3, 2006

Unsecured property just asks to be stolen

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Virginia — There were eight reports of unsecured property theft July 25 through 28 on Langley. Six of those thefts happened at the Shellbank Fitness Center. People did not lock their belongings in a locker before heading to work out and someone went through those unsecured lockers and took keys, wallets and bags.One of the victims was 1st Lt. Jeffrey Hermann.