Fulfilling core expectations of Airmen

Lt. Col. John Reid
37th Airlift Squadron commander


***image1***In serving in the Air Force for more than 17 years, I have learned Airmen have core expectations. I believe these are “real” qualities that help us as leaders and followers to perform more effectively. These core expectations are: responsibility, excellence, accountability and leadership.

The primary expectation is responsibility. As leaders, we should assign Airmen with specific responsibilities so they know how their job contributes to mission accomplishment.

This applies to any situation, whether we are executing our primary job, or taking part in additional duties.

During a flight, one individual is responsible for the crew, aircraft and the safe execution of the flying mission. If something happens during the execution of a mission, I expect answers from one person only – the aircraft commander. I firmly believe all leaders must ensure this same responsibility is conveyed to their troops no matter the Air Force specialty code.

We must demand excellence in our troops. The European theater operates at an amazing pace. Ramstein is engaged on several fronts to support the Global War on Terrorism. As expeditionary Airmen, we played a vital role in facilitating free elections in two countries that were harboring terrorism under oppressive regimes.

The Rhein-Main transition project will make Ramstein the world’s premier airlift hub and facilitate greater support to airlift that is destined for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and numerous locations throughout the European Command. These objectives are met not because we “gave it our best shot,” but because we expect excellence from every Airman, every time!

The expectation of accountability is vital to our success.
Have you ever sought help at a base or civilian agency and received an answer such as “the person who does that is not here,” or “I don’t know” without any follow-up or answers you need? Stressing accountability will replace these answers with “I will find out,” because Airmen will hold themselves accountable to their duty and their customers.

Leadership is the final and most important expectation. Leadership is inherent with the uniform we wear because it symbolizes the freedoms and liberties associated with the United States of America. We must instill a sense of leadership in all Airmen, no matter the rank.

When the twin towers fell in New York City Sept. 11, the entire country looked to men and women in uniform for protection, guidance and leadership.

It did not matter if that uniform belonged to a policeman, fireman, nurse, doctor or military member – the entire country looked to them. Our uniform symbolizes leadership, and today’s Airmen should be expected to fulfill that role.

We can use these core expectations to explain to Airmen how to execute their duties. These expectations apply to every job we perform and to every Airman serving as a defender of our great nation.

Responsibility – Know your job.
Excellence – It’s our core value.
Accountability – “I don’t know” is not the answer!
Leadership – It’s our full-time job.