Shirt Tales: Integrity first is more than just a saying

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Robert Martin
  • 570th Contingency Response Group
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  "Why should I do the right thing or follow the rules if no one is watching?"

It's called integrity. I know you have it in you, but do you bring it out for some fresh air every once in a while? What good is it if you never use it?

My son has a book that's full of short stories I sometimes read him before bedtime. It's called "The Children's Book of Virtue." In the book there's a story of two little brothers.

One would always say "please" when asking for something from his parents. His "please" was getting plenty of fresh air and was full of energy and life. His brother's "please" on the other hand was gasping for air and almost to the point of starvation from the lack of being used.

Short story made shorter, he did eventually start using his "please" and giving it fresh air. By the end of the story his "please" was full of energy like his older brother's, and Mom and Dad were very "pleased" to hear this.

The moral of the story is, like good manners, what good is your integrity if you don't give it some fresh air and use it every once in a while?

Ask yourself the following:

"Should I be talking on my phone while I'm driving on base even though no one can see me? I know it's against policy to do so since it's been advertised in the Tailwind and there's a sign at the gate telling me not to."

"Should I be watering my lawn at noon even though the watering hours are from 5 to 10 a.m.? I know since I read my Travis Housing Brochure and read the marquee sign going out the main gate lately that there are specific hours for watering."

"Should I be running to get inside a building when retreat plays at 4:30 p.m.? I know it is disrespectful to the flag and those that have given the ultimate sacrifice for this country and my way of life."

The list could go on and on, but I'm sure you get the picture. You don't have to be a first sergeant to correct someone when you see them violating a rule, policy, instruction or the law.

Do the right thing and correct them on the spot. Hopefully they'll have the integrity to correct themselves before you have to.

Shirt Tales is a forum for Team Travis' First Sergeants Council to provide key information regarding dress and appearance, customs and courtesies, standards, proper etiquette, drill and ceremonies, and referral agency assistance.