Meet the new 6th OSS commander

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  • By Thunderbolt Staff
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 6th Air Mobility Wing would like to welcome Lt. Col. Leslie Maher, the new commander for the 6th Operations Support Squadron. Colonel Maher took command of the unit April 29.

Colonel Maher took time to answer a few questions for the Thunderbolt.

Thunderbolt: What do you expect of the Airmen under your command?

Colonel Maher: I expect my Airmen will complete their portion of the mission to the best of their ability. In addition, I want my Airmen to stretch themselves in ways that improve their personal lives as well as the way we achieve mission goals. I just completed my "immersion" recently and couldn't be more pleased with the caliber of Airman I am fortunate enough to serve with.

Thunderbolt: Who are your favorite leaders and role models?

Colonel Maher: I have been fortunate to be mentored by so many great leaders, both Air Force and the other services. The two that stand out for me are names you will likely hear about in the future - Army Lt. Gen. Charles Jacoby and Air Force Maj. Gen. Darren McDew. Both of these gentlemen make time in their day to share the lessons they've learned over their long careers. The most important aspect of command they taught me was how imperative it is to expand and nurture your "web" of relationships, which in turn enable members to maximize the advice and knowledge available to tackle problems efficiently.

Thunderbolt: What does it mean to you to be the new 6th OSS commander?

Colonel Maher: I have the responsibility to build upon the already solid foundation laid by my predecessors. With that in mind, I look at this position as being the "major weapons system" for the men and women of the 6th OSS. Once armed appropriately with the right data and background on an issue, I go to work to facilitate and improve the working conditions for my members.

Thunderbolt: When you hold your first commander's call what is the first thing you are going to tell your Airmen?

Colonel Maher: I held my first commander's call just five hours after taking command. I explained my background and how each experience shaped me for command. In addition, I used the call to shape the boundaries of what I expect of my Airmen and what they can expect of me.

Thunderbolt: What are your thoughts about MacDill and living in Tampa?

Colonel Maher: Since I am coming in from an assignment with the Pentagon, MacDill and Tampa provides me an opportunity get back to thinking about Air Force issues vice the global political issues. As for my family life, Tampa allows the Mahers to spend "better" time together since we are getting away from the challenging commute and heavy traffic. I will miss the work I did in the Joint Staff and the friends we just left, but each new adventure brings a different excitement that keeps me from even considering ending this career any time soon. Lots of smiles in the Maher household these days!