Chief entertains, enlightens

Published Aug. 13, 2007
By Tech. Sgt. Kimberley Young
21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- "I can be hazardous to any negative thoughts," said former Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor.

It was quite a way to begin a presentation, but as anyone who has ever heard him speak, no one would have expected anything less.

Chief Gaylor, the fifth CMSAF, was the guest speaker during the Master Sergeant Induction Ceremony here Aug. 3, but decided to come up from San Antonio, Texas, a day early so he could meet and speak with Airmen of all ranks.

Born in a small town with a population of 880, Chief Gaylor has done quite a bit in his life, and although he retired from the Air Force in 1979, he's been an active part of the Air Force ever since. Chief Gaylor has visited 28 bases so far this year, including some overseas, and his calendar is full into next year. He's full of energy and he demonstrates that when he speaks.

"I love to talk and I have boundless energy and enthusiasm. You can't wear me out," Chief Gaylor said matter-of-factly. "I have never met a microphone I didn't like."

The great storyteller had everyone in stitches while imparting valuable insight, starting off with the importance of Airmen and how "every military member is important and vital to the success of the Air Force." He spoke of how today's contributions to the Air Force are ongoing and the Air Force's image is earned. He spoke of tennis nets and sand traps to demonstrate some of the obstacles along career paths, which allow Airmen to demonstrate what they are capable of doing.

"Conformity is a very powerful influence," said Chief Gaylor, adding that he feels everyone should always strive to do their best and set their own standards. Then he asked a simple question.

"Why?" After a few responses from the audience, he stated the answer is simple, "everyone loves hot fries." As people started looking at each other, Chief Gaylor settled in to tell us a story about a little boy named Juan in Laredo, Texas. Little Juan worked at a hamburger stand and he would see Juan take a bag and run as fast as he could. He would return shortly and do the same thing. Finally Chief asked him what he was doing and Juan told him he was making deliveries. When Chief Gaylor asked why he was running so hard Juan responded with, "Everyone loves hot fries."

That simple statement made an impact on Chief Gaylor. Everyone should continue to make contributions creating a positive image, look forward to obstacles rather than avoid them as that builds character, and last but not least, do the best you can in everything they do.

Ensure people get the right treatment and they will say nice things about you because in the end, "everybody loves hot fries."

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CMSAF Gaylor