Artist’s rendering of WGS-11+

Commentaries

  • Developing a leadership philosophy

    The number one question I get from young supervisors is, "How do I become an effective leader?" The question takes many forms, but it all boils down to the same issue; what set of skills does one focus on in order to lead effectively?In my feedback sessions with young supervisors at my unit, I often

  • The test of three

    At a recent commander's call, I outlined how I expect the members of the 21st Medical Operations Squadron to treat one another. In preparing for the topic, I ran across a story about rumors which ostensibly originated with Socrates. I found the story applicable not only in terms of customer service

  • No task too small

    Perhaps the most researched topic by military scholars is the topic of leadership. Volumes of books are written about the subject and there are many retired senior leaders who make a living facilitating leadership seminars or sharing their experiences during speaking engagements.In the Air Force,

  • March Madness: Showcasing great teams, leadership

    March Madness. A time for college basketball teams to Duke it out (pun intended) for the national championship. The consistent winners display the hallmarks of a great team. Selfless, dedicated and disciplined individuals (players and coaches) committed to performing their best and working together

  • Walking by issues

    One of the most difficult obstacles an Air Force leader will encounter, regardless of whether they are a new or well-seasoned leader, an NCO or a commissioned officer, is engaging with members not meeting standards.Not meeting standards has such a broad spectrum, from being as minor as hair not in

  • Always ready, always improving

    Yes, the rumor is true; the 21st Space Wing has a Unit Effectiveness Inspection Capstone scheduled May 10-19. So, before everyone starts to panic, I'll let you all in on a little secret... We are continually under inspection and the Team Pete Inspector General office is here to help. This is the

  • Professionalism

    One of the most uniquely American military traits is "professionalism." The term captures not just the desire of U.S. military senior military leaders, but also a trait demanded by the American public of its military. As a commander, I speak often of the term professionalism - hoping to help ingrain

  • What qualities, values define your leadership?

    Many years ago, a wise mentor inspired me and a group of young ROTC cadets to approach success as encapsulated in the Chinese characters of risk and preparation. He explained the Chinese written language lacks a single character that means success; rather the risk and preparation characters combine

  • Weigh your options

    It doesn't seem that long ago -- my junior year of high school -- trying to determine what to do with my life. Which path should I take? College or no-college? Military? Move away or remain in my home town? After talking with classmates I decided college was a must, but didn't know how to pay for

  • Leading by example

    I am a big fan of inspirational quotes to keep my compass pointed to my true north. I keep a few favorites on my desk so that I see them every day. Certainly, some of them are platitudes that are better cross-stitched and hanging in my favorite aunt's kitchen than guiding my daily operations, as