Command in the rear-view mirror

  • Published
  • By Maj. Craig Juneau
  • 660th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander
I took command on March 17, 2005, that's roughly 2 years and 3 months ago. I came into this job with many preconceived ideas and lots of advice about what to expect. Much was dead on, but much of it didn't even start to cover the trials and tribulations my Air Force, command, wing and squadron have encountered. The one bit of advice that was true, has always been true and will continue to be true, is that if you take care of your people, they will take care of the mission no matter what. 

My squadron had 425 active duty members two plus years ago. Today it has just under 300. We have survived Program Budget Decision No. 720, the dreaded lack of career job reservations, the crew chief training pipeline being cut off for 18 months, desert rotations and plus ups, an exodus of maintenance experience, lack of funding and the loss of a comrade. But through it all, the one thing that has remained constant: our people's drive to move the mission and to take care of each other. 

It astounds me that in spite of all the above mentioned challenges, our people come in to work every day with a renewed determination. Why? Because that is who they are, what they are about and why they are here. 

Our squadron is not unlike many others spread throughout the Air Force that have had to lean out processes, do more with less and look at all the obstacles as leadership challenges. I am impressed with not only how my unit, but all the units of this total force wing have come together to tackle the challenges of culture change after culture change to produce amazing results. 

I have seen our junior enlisted step into the fray and excel in leadership positions that were formerly looked upon as senior non commissioned officer work. They have inspired me with their drive, commitment to something larger than themselves and most importantly, commitment to their fellow Airmen. I have also seen the renewed drive in our SNCO's and company grade officers. They realize that just as in many conflicts throughout our nation's history, it is up to them to provide hands-on leadership, hope and inspiration to our young troops. 

They carry the message to the masses and mentor and motivate so that our troops can do the nation's business. I would be remiss if I did not mention the truly seamless integration of our Reserve partners and how amazed I am at how integral their experience and expertise is to training the next generation. Without their commitment, we simply could not make the mission happen. 

There is an ancient Chinese proverb that says "may you live in interesting times." When things are mundane and ordered life is easy. It is when things get interesting that the real work begins. For the last two years, things have certainly been interesting and will continue to be so. With Airmen taking care of Airmen, my squadron, this wing, Air Mobility Command, and our Air Force continue to excel and protect not only our nation's freedom, but that of people around the world. 

As I exit from command, I feel confident that my squadron and this wing will continue to achieve great things. Thank you to all I have served with and thank you for the education.