Rendering respect goes far beyond saluting

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Carlton Jamison
  • 60th Medical Group superintendent
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Some 30 to 40 years ago someone posed this question: "what you want, whoop, baby I got it, whoop; want you need, whoop, you know I got it, whoop; all I'm asking is for a little respect when you come home." 

That may sound familiar to some and for those of you that don't know, Aretha Franklin made the song "Respect" one of her biggest selling records. That same respect she sang about is what we need in order to efficiently and effectively do our job. That same respect is what we have to exhibit in order to be the Air Force citizens that we know we are. You will find many definitions of respect in Webster's dictionary but the ones I want to highlight are: "the act of noticing with attention, paying particular attention to and to show or feel deferential regard for; esteem." Rendering respect goes far beyond than just saying ma'am or sir and saluting. 

I realize we sometimes operate in our own little world, but we must respect others for who they are and for what they do. In doing so, we acknowledge their contributions and show our appreciation for their service. I know you are thinking that's what the awards program is for but everyone will not win an award. However, we are all worthy of respect from our fellow Airmen. From turning the wrenches on the flight line to filing and maintaining medical records, each and every job in the world's greatest Air Force is important. It's incumbent upon us to make sure we acknowledge the importance of everyone's position; officer, enlisted and our civilian partners, and we do that through respect. It is my personal opinion that in some way, fashion or form, you earn respect by first giving respect. For in doing so you have a deeper appreciation for received respect and it won't be taken lightly. 

As a young lad growing up in South Carolina, my mom raised me to respect my elders. Entering Basic Training; my Training Instructor instilled in me to respect those senior in rank. Faith in my God drives me to respect everyone because we're people.
Members assigned to and working in all areas of Travis are vital to this mission. So from our youngest Airman to our most seasoned officer. Let's show each and everyone the respect they so deserve. Keep on kicking.