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Commentary Search

  • The rules will set you free

    One of the first projects we had at Officer Training School was to develop a leadership philosophy. We were heavily tasked at OTS and I rushed through the project, since I just wanted to turn the assignment in on time. Little did I know the philosophy I developed in haste would still be with me 14

  • Four Pillars of Maintenance

    "...I believe the two hardest things we do in our Air Force are flying and fixing our weapon systems....Maintaining the health of our aging fleets balanced with the need to produce sorties that help win wars is a core capability that requires focus and proficiency." - General Jumper, former Chief of

  • Integrity, first or second?

    Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In All We Do. I know what you're thinking: "Oh, great....another boring article on our core values." Maybe. But, from what I've seen, those values aren't quite as core as they should be. Yes, I'm talking about YOU. Those should be your core values,

  • Doing the basics

    Can you imagine getting up to go to work today and forgetting to put on your socks? It would make you uncomfortable, you might get a blister, and you would be out of uniform. The reason we put our socks on is that it is a basic thing we do to complete our uniform and keep ourselves healthy and safe

  • History’s lessons: Today’s success, tomorrow’s opportunities

    In our Air Force's 61-year history, Airmen repeatedly have been called upon to defend the cause of freedom in the air and on unfamiliar terrain around the world. Whatever the conflict, natural disaster or crisis, Airmen have answered the call and performed their missions with incredible courage and

  • Of swearing, ‘pirates’ and history repeating

    "I do solemnly swear or affirm that I will support the constitution of the United States. I do solemnly swear or affirm to bear true allegiance to the United States of America, and to serve them honestly and faithfully, against all their enemies or opposers whatsoever, and to observe and obey the

  • Remember why you're a patriot

    I stepped outside my home one recent August evening to catch some cool night air. The next thing I knew the melancholy notes of "Taps" filled the air. I had forgotten that at 10 p.m. every night at McGuire Air Force Base, N.J., as in most military installations at nondeployed locations, the lone

  • Customs and courtesies: An important Air Force tradition

    As we prepare for upcoming exercises this Fall, I would like to take a moment to recognize the hard work and sacrifice of each and every Team Fairchild Airman. I am constantly blown away by your talent, professionalism and dedication to the mission of this wing. You make me proud to be your wing

  • Voting is another way to serve

    As military men and women, we have a deep commitment to the service of our nation. We've all taken oaths to "... support and defend the constitution of the United States ..." In our Airmen's Creed, we each take our commitment even farther by vowing to "defend my country with my life." It's this type

  • Skyfest – a tremendous success

    I would first like to start by thanking the men and women of Team Fairchild, I could not be more proud of all the effort in making Skyfest 2008 an outstanding event. There were high expectations for the show, but they were exceeded in every way. I am eternally grateful for all the hard work and