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  • Of friends and family

    Early Tuesday morning, before the sun came up, I kissed my wife as she sent a few e-mails and kissed my sons as they slept. Part of my morning routine, to be sure, but somehow this morning these simple gestures meant even more to me. I woke at 4:15 this cloudy morning after Memorial Day to the

  • So, you want to ride a bike

    Maybe it's the sound of the wind rushing past your ears Maybe it's the sense of freedom you feel when you realize it's just you, your machine, and the beautiful Florida scenery. Maybe you like saving on gas and reducing your carbon footprint. Or maybe it's the shared experiences you get when you

  • Effective Chain of Command hinges on Trust

    The United States Air Force, like most large organizations, operates through a chain of command. Leaders and followers give and receive orders, and execute the tasks required to perform the mission. For the chain of command to operate effectively there must exist a level of trust among the members

  • Preparation is Key

    The Air Mobility Command (AMC) Inspector (IG) General team along with the command Logistics Standardization and Evaluation Program (LSEP) team will be evaluating MacDill from August 3-8. UCI, EMX and LSEP...How do these acronyms apply to you and why are they vitally important? They stand for Unit

  • Why we always tip the maid -- a thought from a retiring Soldier

    I'm approaching the sunset of my career. Soldiering has been a magnificent ride, packed with wonderful memories and friendships. The U.S. Army assigned me to test the Patriot Missile System at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico (which later knocked SCUDs out of the sky). I've enjoyed a cold beer

  • Why We Serve

    In 2006, I had the privilege of speaking at a traveling Vietnam Wall event. I was honored to pay respect to all our veterans, especially our Vietnam veterans. I myself am Vietnamese, so as you can imagine, this was very personal to me. If it weren't for those brave soldiers who fought in a war half

  • A lot can be learned from 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas!'

    No, not the real thing, I am talking about the movie. Now that I have your attention, I am hoping that by using this unorthodox headline I peaked your curiosity enough that you just might read the rest of this commentary. Trust me when I say it is all in fun. For those of you who know me well, it

  • Good Leadership at Core of Team Success

    I believe leadership is the most essential part of an organization. Leadership provides a shining example of what individuals aspire to. Good leader inspire, motivate, and bring out the absolute best in a team. They encourage forward thinking, creativity, open communications, and taking the

  • Care for Airmen, their families one of mission objectives

    "The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have past at home in the bosom of my family.... public employment contributes neither to advantage nor happiness. It is but honorable exile from one's family and affairs." -- Thomas Jefferson, 1790 Because this commentary will be published

  • It’s your choice to make

    In 1994 I was in San Antonio and heard a speech with the premise being all about the choices we choose to make. The lecturer's speech was in the form of humor, he was energetically walking from one side of the stage to the other, knocking out little anecdotes, telling funny stories about the choices