‘Airmen first’ concept reality for changing Air Force

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Russell Kuck
  • 62nd Airlift Wing command chief master sergeant
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Putting on your uniform and wearing your stripes is not something to be taken lightly. Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney McKinley said it best: "Serving as an Airman is an honor that thousands of young Americans want, but do not attain ..."

There are currently more than 38,000 enlisted Airmen serving in more than 100 career fields in Air Mobility Command. However, we all carry the same title -- we're all Airmen.

More than 30,000 Airmen are deployed worldwide. Several are directly supporting our joint services. Some of our specialties are interchangeable, making only our title as "Airmen" the distinction of our mission.

Remember, your mission is bigger than your Air Force specialty code. Regardless of your AFSC, your first responsibility is to be an Airman. We all have skills to operate across the spectrum of the force. Now is the time to put those universal skills to the test.

The Air Force prides itself on the quality of its Airmen. Balancing the career fields is a step we have to make in order to keep the highest quality force. For some, that means we're asking you to do something different. Take this as a challenge, and grow as an Airman. Don't get caught up with your duty title or specialty. We are one team fighting one fight so be proud of what you do and being an Airman.

I know it's not easy to step out of your comfort zone to do this, but the Air Force needs you and your skill in another field to help us continue to execute our mission and being the world's best Air and Space Force. Hooah.