Airman show heart through their actions Published Aug. 31, 2006 By Col. Jay G. Santee 21st Space Wing commander PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- I'm continuously bragging about your efforts. Recently, I invited several state leaders, as well as members of the distinguished Colorado 30 Group, to enjoy lunch and hear about the greatest wing in the Air Force. In addition to addressing the future of the 21st Space Wing, I stated clearly my vision to save the nation. While emphasizing our three missions and illustrating our many achievements, it occurred to me just how much I love my job. The timing of this experience goes hand-in-hand with the third element of my "Know It, Do It, Love It" theme as we approach inspection time. While we may understand that knowledge is power and that skill is how we apply that knowledge, we sometimes forget about a third element which is vital to success - heart. This element demonstrates to everyone, near and far, how we strive for excellence simply because we love our cause. In the weeks and months to come, I'm eager to demonstrate theheart of the Air Force's only space superiority wing. We've accomplished missions despite huge obstacles, served as watchful wingmen for each other, and volunteered many hours to make our community a better place. All the while, we've pursued personal and team opportunities to make ourselves better Airmen. These are just a few examples of how we've shown our love for the cause. Now we prepare as a team to demonstrate our heart to all those who will be visiting us in the near future. During inspections, there are many ways to show heart. Bragging about our successes is one way; detailing how we overcame difficult circumstances is another. Even better, providing a list of "best practices" to an inspector shows how we take pride in our work and want to see our ideas passed on to units across the command and the rest of the Air Force. I urge everyone to go back and take a look at the things you've done. Do some research and be prepared to take credit for your achievements. Perhaps even take it to the next level by writing it down and presenting it when the time is right. To me, that's what showing heart is all about. That's what brings outstanding results. As we prepare for the challenges ahead, let's be sure to demonstrate how every person in the 21st Space Wing has the heart to save the nation.