Core Values more than just words Published Nov. 18, 2008 By Col. Jay Raymond 21st Space Wing commander PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- What defines the qualities and principles of our Air Force? Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence In All We Do. These are our service Core Values and they set the universal standard for conduct and behavior across our Air Force. November's focus area for Air Force Space Command's Year of Leadership is "Core Values," and I believe our Core Values are what unify our force and connect us to the past and future. Our Core Values are what make our military succeed. They exist for all members of our Air Force - whether active duty, reserve, guard, or civilian. Our Core Values inspire us to do our very best, with the utmost character and dedication. Without our Core Values, our mission would fail. So what do Integrity, Service, and Excellence truly mean to you? Are they merely words to memorize, or do you live your life by them? According to the USAF Core Values "Little Blue Book," the reasons we have Core Values are four-fold: 1) They tell us the price of admission to the Air Force itself, 2) They point to what is universal and unchanged in the profession of arms, 3) They help us get a fix on the ethical climate of our organization, and 4) They serve as a beacon, vectoring us back to the path of professional conduct; they allow us to transform a climate of corrosion into a climate of ethical commitment. Speaking of high ethical commitment, last week the Air Force released the list of selects to one of the most elite groups in our enlisted force. The Air Force's Chief Master Sergeant promotion release had 520 Senior Master Sergeants selected from 2,415 eligibles, Air Force-wide. Air Force Space Command-wide, there were 98 eligible and 20 selected, for a rate of 20.4 percent. Here at Team Pete, we have the honor of reporting that 13 of our Senior Master Sergeants were selected into the rank of "Chief." This is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon an enlisted Air Force member and is the culmination of a stellar career. The role of Chief Master Sergeant is very distinct within the Air Force. Superiors, subordinates and peers place very high expectations on those serving in this grade. They hold key leadership positions at all levels in the Air Force and are a source of great wisdom. They are mentors and advocates for their Airmen and epitomize the finest qualities of a military leader. Congratulations to our newest Chief-selects. I know you all will continue to excel and lead our Air Force, and to help develop and mold our Airmen and future Air Force leaders. Next week is Thanksgiving, and since there will not be a paper published due to the short work week, Mollie and I want to wish you all a happy and safe holiday. Have fun and relax. As you are gathering with friends and family, remember those deployed around the world who are not able to be with their loved ones. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers in this time of thanksgiving. Enjoy your holidays and please remember to incorporate good Operational Risk Management and safety in all of your activities. We are the greatest Air, Space and Cyber Force on the face of the Earth, bar none. The entire world looks to the United States as a beacon of hope and freedom, thanks to our brothers and sisters-in-arms. Have a great week and remember: Integrity, Service, and Excellence!