Lt. Gen. Healy and I often discuss what it means to have a healthy and ready force. In the last issue of Citizen Airman, Lt. Gen. Healy and I challenged all Airmen to stay focused and do their job as we prepare for the realities of Great Power Competition.
Prior to that, in January of this year, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David W. Allvin charged the Air Force Reserve to prioritize four lines of effort. One of those efforts was the pursuit of Warrior Ethos within our force. Serving in the profession of arms comes with responsibilities, requirements and attributes aligned with our Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in All We Do.
These unifying values serve as the foundation for our Warrior Ethos. Meeting CSAF’s intent requires all Airmen to take care of each other and focus on preparing ourselves for the rigors of future conflicts. Our profession requires us to have the moral courage and discipline to prioritize Comprehensive Airman Fitness. This concept presents an integrated framework to sustain a fit, ready and resilient force centered on four domains - mental, physical, social and spiritual.
Essentially, it means having a balanced lifestyle. Introduced in 2019, Comprehensive Airman Fitness is a cultural shift in how we view and maintain fitness in a more holistic manner. It enables Airmen to hold each other accountable against Air Force Core Values, while also reinforcing a personal commitment to integrating Warrior Ethos into our everyday actions. When we think of Comprehensive Airman Fitness, our core values and Warrior Ethos, three overlapping qualities stand out: strength of character, determination and mindfulness.
Strength of Character
Strength of character – a quality that comes from moral courage - is reflected in the core value of Integrity First. This includes having the integrity to be responsible for ourselves and accountable to each other. A highly functional weapon system is not just a collection of parts; it is a unified whole that works together as one.
Our most valuable asset is our human weapons system. As a fighting force, we are not just a collection of individuals but the sum of our Airmen: A united front working together toward the common mission – the defense of our nation. You remain our nation’s most competitive advantage, not just because of your unmatched expertise but by your strength of character in answering to a higher call.
Determination
Determination means looking over the horizon and beyond the stresses that lie immediately in front of us, as displayed by Service Before Self and Warrior Ethos. Working together, our sense of common purpose and goal gives us the fortitude to press ahead. As Reserve Airmen, you demonstrate determination and resolve daily – continually rising to meet each challenge and overcoming obstacles to get the mission done. The key to being a professional is the ability to do something reliably and on-demand. This next year will be a time of transition and transformation to increase our ability to do just that.
As we look towards the challenges of Great Power Competition and the organizational developments presented by Combat Wings, we must prepare to work through the associated stress that accompanies change. We will succeed, and not just through proper planning, but with grit and determination. For the last three decades, your selfless service has fortified our joint force. Today’s challenge is no different. Your continued perseverance and commitment to excellence will lead us through any test to assured success.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is reflected in the mental, social and spiritual aspects of Comprehensive Airmen Fitness. As we approach the holidays and the upcoming new year, we must be mindful of factors that contribute to both our joy and stress.
It is an opportunity to reflect, rest and recharge before returning to meet the demands and expectations of our nation. However, the holiday season may be difficult for some. As Wingmen, we ask that you look out for one another. While many of us look forward to spending time with our loved ones during the holiday season, not everyone can.
Take time to connect with your brothers and sisters in arms who may not have family to celebrate with this season. The holidays can also start or intensify financial hardships. Be it financial, family or emotional stresses, we must connect Airmen to the resources available to ease those burdens.
If you are in need, tell your supervisor. Supervisors, we encourage you to check-in with your subordinates deliberately and purposefully. Every single one of you and your families are important. As much as we need you to be physically and operationally ready, we need you in the right warrior mindset.
Let’s close out this year knowing we’ve met CSAF’s intent and are fully ready for any trials the new year might bring. We appreciate the sacrifices of our deployed service members and their families and look forward to their safe return. From Cathy, Susie and both Lt. Gen. Healy and I, we wish you all a peaceful holiday season filled with joy and relaxation.