Wing commander likes what he sees around base

  • Published
  • By Col. Greg Tims
  • 90th Missile Wing commander
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --  I get a chance to speak to the class of our First Term Airman's Center about once a week. Tech. Sgt. Charles Branum, 90th Force Support Squadron, runs a tight ship; I like what I see when I go over there.

It is important to ensure our Airmen start off on the right foot the moment they arrive to our wing. I purposely use the big "A" here, because it applies to both our enlisted and officers.

One of the first things I say to the FTAC students is, "Congratulations." I congratulate them on joining the world's greatest Air Force ever assembled on this planet. When I first walked through the Air Force doors, it was 1985. We were pretty good then, but not like we are today. Those who join us today enter the most capable, professional and lethal force to date. We are what we are, not because of weaponry, but because of the people.
Next, I cover three things that we expect from them: First, maintain your professionalism, on and off duty; second, give 100 percent; and third, treat others as you would like to be treated. This is a two-way street. You should also expect this from your supervisors. As you can see, this isn't rocket science sort of stuff.

I get asked a lot on how to succeed in today's Air Force, so I cover this in my third point with our FTAC students. You need to understand that you have entered into the profession of arms. Our standards are high. We value character and toughness. We value a hard work ethic and those who understand teamwork. Passion and focus are necessities to being the best. Strive to be the best, not for glory or fame, but to make those around you even better. Set high goals, and unless you are being asked to do something illegal, immoral or unethical, be judicious on using the words, no or I can't.

We play this game to win -- anything else is unacceptable.

Finally, I asked them if they have read Tom Brokaw's book, "The Greatest Generation." It's a great book, and I would recommend it to anyone. In a short summary, Mr. Brokaw calls those who fought in World War II the greatest generation. We can learn a lot from this generation; however, I challenge our new teammates to consider their place in history.

I believe someone will write a book about this new generation that has joined us. They will use similar points and write stories about them, just like Mr. Brokaw did to the World War II generation. Someday, they too will be called the greatest generation. I say this because they have to -- this new generation cannot lose. This new generation must understand the importance of the war we are deterring, as well as the war we are fighting. No doubt this is a heavy burden we place upon their shoulders.

That is why I want to be sure we welcome our new Airmen into today's culture -- a culture that values daily excellence, a culture that provides preeminent combat capability across the spectrum of conflict. Help them start off on the right foot by reemphasizing to them what we expect and what we value.

I also get an opportunity to speak with our Airmen Leadership School class, which is currently in session. This time, I started out with a challenge on who could stand-up and recite our nine word mission statement. Senior Airman Bradley Pousha, 90th Missile Security Forces Squadron, stood up and met the challenge. I coined him. Well done Bradley. It is important for all of us to understand how we connect into the mission and vision of this base.

I saw a hole in my schedule this Monday, so I bolted for the door. I found myself at the front gate, checking identification cards with Senior Airman William Berrios and Airman 1st Class Jaimz Andrews, 90th Security Forces Squadron. They sure did a good job of welcoming those cleared to enter our installation with a professional greeting. However, don't let their smiles and courteous welcomes fool you -- they are very well trained at what they do to ensure this base is properly secured at all times. Also, be careful if you challenge them on reciting the mission statement -- not only do they know it, they fully understand what it means and how they both personally contribute to it.

A few months back, I tasked wing safety to give me a formal, written feedback on technicians moving large vehicles in the missile field. Specifically how they negotiate turns, vehicle spacing and communications between supervisors and drivers. Last Tuesday, Dave Clark and Troy Weaver, 90th Missile Wing Safety, observed Staff Sgt. Scott Gray's, 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron, periodic maintenance team in the Lima Flight area. The movement was one of the best seen. While Mr. Clark and Mr. Weaver were providing feedback on the L-07 access road to Sergeant Gray, the PMT van driver, Senior Airman James Derbyshire, 90th MMXS, said, "We are as good as any [payload transporter] driver and just as safe."

I like this type of confidence.

This type of confidence is what makes us the Mighty Ninety. This kind of pride and enthusiasm in job performance is another reason for our remarkable safety record.
As we move into warmer temperatures, please continue to stay vigilant in our safety practices, on and off duty. Our safety record is unparalleled. We want to keep it that way.

Go Forth and Conquer!