Take care of your people Published Aug. 7, 2008 By Master Sgt. Michael Wilsey 51st Medical Group first sergeant MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- I was a Security Forces staff sergeant, stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont., supervising a missile field security crew of seven Airmen when I received this most career impacting challenge. It came from Master Sgt. Gregory Hurt, my flight chief. "You have the ability to positively impact, not only the security forces career field, but the entire Air Force, if you take the time to take care of your people," he said. "If you choose to ignore their problems, choose to focus only on their job performance and not genuinely care about your people, you are failing in your responsibilities as a supervisor and an NCO. If you do not take care of your people, who will?" The answer is no one! You have to take the time to take care of your people! The experiences I have gained through the years have brought me to the highlight of my career, that of a first sergeant. No other words embody the spirit and intent of my position than, "take care of your people." There is no job more rewarding. You know you are doing your job well when your people are proud to say that you are "their shirt." You have been the strength they could turn to in times of trouble, heartbreak, pain and when the fear of the unknown came along. You were also the one they share their times of joy, laughter, fun and success. Through the good times and hard times, a Shirt is there for his or her people. My challenge to you today is the same one I received a long time ago -- are you taking care of your people?