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  • Give 'em hell

    In July of this year, I became the command chief master sgt. for the 621st Contingency Response Wing. After five months, I am still in awe of the capabilities, rapid response and resilience of our people. I have had the unique opportunity to watch CRW Airmen at Travis Air Force Base, California, and

  • Learning from Gen-X, millennials to embrace change

    As the holiday season begins and the year comes to a close, it is a good time to review the goals we each set in our personal and professional life. What were we looking to accomplish this year and what can we improve on? Did we take care of ourselves and our family members? What about that Airman

  • Veterans Day: You got served

    Good morning, good afternoon, good day. If you’re reading this and serving our country, have served our country or have served as a member of an Airman’s family, I want to thank you for your service. Your service right now is extremely important for our country’s future.

  • Great appreciation for veterans past and present

    This weekend we observe Veterans Day. It is the perfect opportunity to stop and reflect on the men and women who served in defense of our great nation. In my opinion, our nation’s veterans, as a whole, have accomplished more to bring peace and stability to this world than any other military force or

  • Getting to know the 'Giants'

    “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants,” - Isaac Newton.This weekend, on the 11th day of the 11th month, it will have been 99 years since the armistice was signed that led to the end of the “war to end all wars.” Armistice Day was originally designated to

  • Black and yellow represent: commitment, community

    Our profession is often paradoxical. We intimidate, yet we inspire. We deliver combat power to oppose our adversaries, yet also deliver hope to those in despair. I experienced such a paradox on a mission this week.

  • Life is short... Be happy!

    I had an opportunity a few weeks back to be a part of an Airman Speed Mentoring forum. While excited about the chance to meet Travis Air Force Base, California, Airmen, I was nervous about the questions I would be asked. I attended and quickly realized I overthought the intent behind the forum.

  • The Airman's responsibility to dissent

    I am nearing the end of my 20-year career with the Air Force. As I prepare to walk proudly away from service to my country, I can’t help but spend a few moments reflecting on my years.

  • Develop your Airmen for the long term

    Travis Air Force Base, Calif. – As commanders, we often talk about “developing airmen”. This is usually related to their on-going military career-field training or a formal course of study to get a college degree. However, I suggest that sometimes, developing airmen means guiding them through the

  • It's not about me

    I was raised in Lima, Peru in a household where food was scarce, I shared a bed with three siblings and my grandmother and the clothes were hand-me-downs. I learned to appreciate my family and the little things. Although migrating to America at the age of 10 was one of the smartest moves my family