Commentaries

33rd Fighter Wing

Oct. 7, 2013
Cruisin' without bruisin'

When people think of stupid and reckless decisions, buying a motorcycle is usually on the top of their list. However, while knowing this, I personally canceled a plane ticket and bought a motorcycle in North Carolina and drove it to Columbus AFB; to say the least, my leadership was a little unsure
Sept. 25, 2013
One Airman's tragedy is another's life lesson

I still remember the confusion I felt as I slid out of bed to find the phone. It was ringing too loudly and too early to be the office. Living in the U.K., my wife and I had become accustomed to late calls as relatives struggled to figure out the time difference, but it was too late for that. In my
Sept. 20, 2013
Investing in military education: The strategic arm of professional development

At a time when every dollar counts, the Air Force continues to spend scarce resources to send thousands of captains every year to Squadron Officer School. With flying hours slashed, we are prioritizing eight-week TDYs to Maxwell instead of converting JP-8 into thrust, lift and airpower.Can SOS
Sept. 20, 2013
Suicide Prevention: Don't be afraid to ask 'why'

I was a young Airman, accused of a crime I didn't commit - I faced a court martial with an outcome of a dishonorable discharge, years in prison and civil limitations for the rest of my life. I was ultimately found not guilty, but not before I tried to kill myself.I was new to the Air Force. I was
Sept. 18, 2013
Thoughts on the Air Force's 66th Anniversary

While the Air Force officially recognizes its anniversary on Sept. 18, today's Airmen should recognize that such dates are simply small waypoints often crafted for convenience. Some anniversaries have great significance, but most represent only a small fragment of a larger truth; tangible mileposts
Sept. 10, 2013
Remembering our fallen service members

Many of us have seen the vacant Prisoner of War and Missing in Action table set for one at dining facilities or at banquets. We've seen the white tablecloth, the single red rose, the yellow ribbon, lemon slice, sprinkled salt, inverted glass, empty chair and burning candle. But how many of us know
Aug. 28, 2013
Lights out, gears up ... Airfield comes alive at night

When the sun sets most folks are settling down with their families, eating dinner or relaxing while watching their favorite television show, but for others it is time to work.We don't just forge combat mobility forces during the day at Altus AFB. The flight line and airspace continue to thrive even
Aug. 19, 2013
All things happen for a reason

Most think that we have complete control over what happens next in our world. Life can always throw obstacles at us where we have to adapt and overcome. At times we can feel as if the whole world is about to crumble in front of us.To be able to make the best of these situations is always easier said
Aug. 19, 2013
Getting a little awkward

Out of the more than 20,000 people in the Joint Base San Antonio community, where do I fit in?It's a question I've asked myself several times since I arrived here, and while I know my primary job, I like to think I serve another purpose. It causes me discomfort on an everyday basis and sometimes I
May 14, 2013
We can make a difference

Recently, a group of concerned Airmen and I had the chance to be involved in planning and recording a video series regarding sexual assault deterrence. I felt this was a great opportunity for our voices to be heard and to be part of a solution for a problem that affects the entire Air Force family.