I am an officer in the United States Air Force Published Oct. 23, 2009 By 1st Lt. Gilberto Perez CGOC president MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Air Force is not a job it's a way of life. We are faithful to a proud heritage where we find our identity and retrieve our strength. As Airmen, we have obligations to do what's right, serve others before ourselves, and pursue excellence. The blood, sweat, and tears we shed every day to protect our way of life are the sacrifices we are expected to make. I walk throughout the Wing and a common question is always asked, "where do you work LT?" My answer is, "I work for you." As commissioned officers we are here to accomplish the mission and take care of all our Airmen. It is easy to say I am a pilot, communications, or engineer officer and help only those we have direct supervision over. However, the Air Force expects more from us. Where are the Airmen the Air Force expects us to lead? Open your eyes and know your teammates who help you accomplish the mission. The Airman at the gym, legal office, vehicle operations, and computer help desk are all parts of your team. We need to understand that our career fields do not make us who we are. Who we truly are is dictated by the actions we take when nobody is looking or when our boss is not around. MacDill AFB is compromised of many military members of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, and U.S. Marines. As military members we have a common bond because we are all a part of "Team U.S." It is an honor and privilege to serve and answer our Nations call. As CGOs we are everyone's lieutenant or captain from every branch of service. When our Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers, and Marines say that's my LT or Captain, then you know we've done our job. The MacDill Company Grade Officer Council (CGOC) provides CGOs an opportunity to develop as better leaders through creating network opportunities, leadership growth, and community service. The CGOC meets on the second Friday of every month at the Bayshore Club (Swamp) at 3:30 p.m. The CGOC is an organization where fellow CGOs can come together as a team to tackle the big issues around MacDill AFB. Thank you Commanders, Chiefs, First Sergeants, and CGOC staff for helping the CGOC accomplish its vision of "furthering community base relationships through increase participation in CGOC activities".