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Professionalism means being a ‘Great Airman First’

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. James C. Johnson
  • Air Force Recruiting Service commander
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas --  Your Air Force recruiting leadership has been working hard on developing a strategic plan that outlines our current challenges and defines our objectives and path to accomplish the mission over the next 10 years. As part of this process we have refined the AFRS vision which now clearly states that we will "be the most agile, effective and professional recruiting force."

I can't emphasize the vision regarding "professional" enough. Our recruiting force is the face of the Air Force. Whether serving in the heartland of America, or on the busy streets of a major city, recruiting personnel make an impact on everyone they encounter.

Everyone in recruiting, despite your role, must be a "Great Airman First."  For many people, you may be the first and only military member they meet, so it's imperative that you always present yourselves as professional Airmen, on and off duty, 24/7.

You have one opportunity to make that first impression, but it doesn't stop there. Every school you visit, every parent you meet, every person you give your business card to - they are looking to you for advice and assistance joining our great Air Force. Every action you take, even if it's just walking down the street, will be seen as a reflection of the Air Force.

We must consider what we are communicating to the American public through our actions and they must be professional from beginning to end.

Keep in mind this professionalism isn't just an impression that you present to the outside world. The same holds true when we are within our ranks. We do not operate by two sets of rules. Our Core Values and Air Force Instructions are not offered a la carte.

The word "great" clearly defines the image of an Airman. You must remember that your charge is to represent the Air Force in a professional manner on a daily basis. The Airmen you work for, the Airmen who work for you and the future Airmen you inspire to join this great Air Force look to you to exemplify what being a "Great Airman First" means.