Message to CRW's Devil Raiders: Give 'em hell

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Philip Hudson
  • 621st Contingency Response Wing
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  I am impressed.  Since joining the 621st Contingency Response Wing two months ago, I have met some of the most amazing Airmen I have encountered in 23 years of service. 

The Airmen of our wing continuously exemplify the highest levels of readiness and expertise.  While you make it look easy, I know it is not. 

After serving in expeditionary units during the past five years, I recognize the sacrifices you make as well as the professional dedication you muster daily.  As our contingency response capabilities evolve, the demand for flexible, mission-focused Airmen will increase.

To remain successful, our wing relies on innovative, enlisted leadership.  As the only contingency response wing in the Air Force, we enable theater command and control and provide air mobility expertise to ground maneuver units while building partner capacity, as well as deploying contingency response forces worldwide. 

Operating from 20 locations across 18 time zones, we are one team with one mission, providing one response to world crisis at the point of impact, anywhere, anytime.  We cannot succeed without strong, involved enlisted leaders.

I challenge our senior NCOs to focus on training their NCOs in the leadership arts while recognizing the road to success requires the room to fail.  Innovation only works when your subordinates feel comfortable enough to take chances.  Lay the framework for innovation by translating commander intent and then build an environment based on servant leadership ideals.

It is imperative our NCO corps has a voice.  As the first point for enlisted matters, I count on you to train the next generation and to be an expert in your field.  Your Airmen look to you for guidance and prioritization.  Be confident in your abilities and lead.  Your senior leadership trusts you and recognizes your successes fuel mission accomplishment.

Finally, I expect our first-term Airmen to learn their trades.  Study your career development courses and then practice those skills in the field.  Ask your supervisor to explain your role in the mission.  Read about our Air Force heritage and add to the legacy.

As America's global response team, we deploy versatile mobility Airmen, disciplined to solve problems in complex environments.  It takes innovate enlisted leaders to accomplish this mission.  As the 621st Devil Raiders mobilize the fight, provide relief, and advance the peace, I am honored to serve with you. Give 'em hell.