Shaw holds commander's call

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – Col. John Shaw, 21st Space Wing commander, addresses an audience of more than 400 in-person and 300 virtual attendees at a civilian all-call April 29. The topics included opportunities and ideas for efficient operations, civilian and military force management programs, marijuana legalization impacts, civilian leave, his command philosophy and upcoming base events. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Jacob Morgan)

Commander holds civilian all-call

Published April 30, 2014
By Staff Sgt. Jacob Morgan
21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Aimed at confronting the issues effecting the 21st Space Wing civilian workforce, being transparent and quelling rumors, Col. John Shaw, 21st SW commander, held a civilian all-call April 29 here with more than 400 in-person and 300 virtual attendees.

Shaw started the all-call by reminding attendees that they are an essential piece to the Air Force mission.

"The civilian workforce provides the continuity and much needed skills to our force," said Shaw. "My viewpoint is that you are extremely valuable to our wing and to the (Department of Defense)."

Shaw continued by addressing several topics such as opportunities and ideas for efficient operations, civilian and military force management programs, rumors of discontinued operations, marijuana legalization, civilian leave, his command philosophy and upcoming events.

After his opening comment, he opened the floor to questions from the audience.

"This time is so valuable to me, maybe we can go to a lightning round of questions," said Shaw. "I want to hear what is on your mind and I want to answer your questions to the best of my ability."

The questions mainly revolved around civilian force management. Shaw had subject matter experts on hand, including Tonya Bonner, 21st Force Support Squadron chief of civilian personnel, to help answer many questions regarding force management. Her key message was to stay informed on upcoming changes and to review records on MyPers, the Air Force personnel system.

Shaw closed the all-call by assuring the audience that the wing continues to need its civilian employees and the value they add to the mission.

"Thanks for all that you do day in and day out," said Shaw. "I value you and I still need you to do the mission every day; I need you to be thinking of what we can do to get ready for tomorrow and I need you to take care of each other. Stay excellent in all you do and be excellent to each other."