TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- As I walk around base visiting the different organizations and meeting our Airmen, I often wonder how people view me as their command chief. I mean, "do I look the part, am I visible enough and do they consider me the right person to represent our enlisted force in the 60th Air Mobility Wing."

I take great pride and honor in having the opportunity to serve in this capacity and I don't take my responsibility lightly. However, we should all take pride in being Airmen in the United States Air and Space Force. Do you?

Pride can be displayed in many different forms. How we wear the uniform, how we perform our duties and our conduct on, and off duty to name a few.

Uniform, performance and attitude are all equally important, but we are the face of America's Air and Space Force and thus, the image we portray is invaluable.

Think about it, when we encounter someone from the civilian sector not accustomed to dealing with military members, the impression we make upon them becomes their expectation. They expect all Airmen to fit the mold you've carved into their minds.

As an Airman, what imprint do you leave behind. Do you care?

I truly believe "example" is the most powerful tool leaders have in their arsenal. Leading by example and demonstrating a professional image for Airmen to emulate and enforcing the standards

Enforcing the standards and leading by example isn't just levied upon our leaders. Regardless of your rank, you can be a sterling example for us to follow and yes, you can tactfully correct violators of the standards.

We all have a stake in this institution, from airman basic to general officer, civilian employees and our families. Collectively we are the Air Force. So yes, correct violators of the standards. It's your responsibility because you are an Airmen.

Being referred to as Airmen is a privilege many Americans will never experience. Recall how proud and excited you were the very first time you donned your Air Force uniform.
Remember, a transformation ensued. A transformation from whom ever you were before to someone vested in higher values.

Today, it saddens me to say some of us have lost that pride and it reflects in how we wear our uniform.

Fitness is a huge part of professional image. In fact, General John Jumper, former Chief of Staff of the Air Force, published a Sight Picture June 25, 2004 emphasizing commanders' responsibility to ensure their people pass the eyeball test.

In other words, just because Airmen pass their fit exam doesn't mean they look the part.

Does that pride resonate within you today and is it evident by your appearance. I was taught as an adolescent that first impressions are lasting impressions. What impression do you leave on those you encounter?

Only you can answer that question, yet every one you come in contact with will see the answer.

Our uniform is a part of our heritage. It's emblematical of who we are and what we represent.

Through hard work, dedication and commitment we earned the right to wear the distinct uniform of the United States Air and Space Force. 

Let's wear it with pride.