18 Nov 2015

Lessons learned from a boy wizard

I have always been an avid reader. My grandmother started teaching me to love reading early in my life. She would spend countless hours reading aloud to me and encouraged me to find a love in literature. My grandfather-her husband- and my mother are both illiterate. My grandmother knew if I didn't learn from her, I never would.I grew up in a home

3 Nov 2015

Leadership lessons from Yogi Berra

On Sept. 22 we lost a great American, Lawrence "Yogi" Berra. For those that don't know, Yogi Berra was born to Italian immigrant parents and went on to become an 18-time All-Star, 10-time World Series champion, and three-time MVP.  He played 18 seasons with the Yankees and one with the Mets before continuing on as a manager and coach until his

26 Oct 2015

Health care administrators, entrusted to facilitate health care

Active-duty members, their families and retirees of Malmstrom Air Force Base trust our doctors, nurses and medical technicians to provide high-quality, safe and professional health care.  Patients may only see their provider during a visit; however, a largely hidden yet critical component of the health care delivery team is the administrators

16 Sep 2015

A perspective on commitment

When we first become an Airman, whether enlisted, officer or civilian, we take an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States from all enemies foreign and domestic. What does that mean? Looking back on over four decades of service, my perspective has changed from when I first enlisted to today serving as a civil servant.The

19 Aug 2015

Spiritual resilience: Strengthening the human "within"

Sometimes it's easier to convey a truth with a word picture, a parable that is thrown down alongside a reality making it easier to grasp. Spirituality and spiritual resilience are "built-fit" for this.  So here's my attempt to turn the "landing-light" on this critical component of lives.  Let's start with open ocean racing. Have you seen the yachts

12 Aug 2015

Take steps to prevent identity theft

Did you know that the Department of Defense has announced that approximately 4 million current and former DoD employees' information may have been compromised? These members should have already been notified and will receive free subscriptions to CSID Protector Plus for 18 months. But what have you done to prevent and mitigate identity theft?There

11 Aug 2015

Run because you can

In an editorial entitled, "Never saw this coming...Lessons learned in trying times," former Air Force Personnel Center commander Maj. Gen. A.J. Stewart wrote, "Be fit, be strong and be healthy every day. Fitness is not about just passing the Air Force Fitness Test or deploying, it is about saving your life. A well-rested, strong body and a healthy

7 Aug 2015

Balancing motherhood and the mission

It's an exciting time for female service members who balance the mission with motherhood. July alone featured three major decisions assisting military moms and families.  After the Navy took the lead in lengthening paid maternity leave from six to 18 weeks, the Air Force is now starting conversations in extending maternity leave as well.  With

27 Jul 2015

Lifetime learner: What's the newest tool in your toolbox?

We juggle many mission needs every day and the associated personnel support to take care of our people.  Take a moment to think about the last time you operated outside your comfort zone.  I caution against the perception that you don't need any more training because you've been around a long time.As Air Force leaders, it is our duty to grow the

13 Jul 2015

Brothers in arms: A story of three Airmen

The bond between brothers is a very special thing. As the oldest of three, this bond holds a very special place in my heart.In the military, it is also common to hear people refer to the men and women who perform this duty of service, brothers and sisters in arms.To live, work and die next to someone who maybe a couple weeks ago was a complete