Commentary …It was 1986

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Gene Mattingly
  • 100th CS commander
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  (Editor's note--In 1986, the word "internet" didn't mean anything to anyone. The Air Force used typewriters [Google it] for official documentation. There were no i-pads, cell phones, digital cameras, PowerPoint slides or e-mail taskings. Without all of these modern things, Airmen were still being Airmen. Some things were different with the uniform. For example, the star on the enlisted rank was subdued for airman basic through senior airman. Once a senior airman became a sergeant (also an E-4 and referred to as a "buck sergeant"), then the star in the center of the rank matched the stripes. Although Lt. Col. Gene Mattingly, 100th Communications Squadron commander, missed World War II by a few years, he was still being an Airman long before he was being a commander. Mattingly took some time to share things that helped him in his journey from E-1 to O-5 in the Air Force that he loves. Whether your first car was a Chevette or a Volt, Mattingly's list stands the test of time and technology.)

I enlisted in 1986, and as an Airman Basic (E-1) I arrived Plattsburgh Air Force Base, N.Y., on a cold December day. That seems like yesterday. However, it has been well over 25 years now, and that's a lot of great people I've interacted with--who've contributed to the Airman I am today, and a whole lot of work accomplished, and some personal sacrifice along the way. Mainly the sacrifices on the part of my wife of 24 years and my three children, the oldest now 15, who have contended with my "Service Before Self" approach to serving our Air Force.

Like so many others, whether deployed, or simply giving extra time at home station, my family has always sacrificed more than I ever will. I'm sure thankful for their love and dedication, because it is evident this Air Force service demands commitment on the part of the whole family. I never take that for granted, and I believe that is a key to success--that is, letting my family know I realize they too are making sacrifices.

However, I've learned a few other things along the way. The list attached are some thoughts that I share from my experience that began Aug. 22, 1986, when I arrived at basic military training, to now, 25 years later, as a lieutenant colonel in our great Air Force, and blessed to serve as a squadron commander too.

The list is random, and I can expand on each point, but I think most folks get the "take-away" from each line. I offer it up to help. Maybe it'll help motivate someone to keep moving forward in their service, or to set a goal for education, or simply to do the very best job in the job they currently have and in so doing find satisfaction that lasts.

Finally, these things keep me resilient. These points I offer relate to my mental, physical, social and spiritual health. You may not see the mention of God's name in list, but don't be confused by that aspect. It is my spiritual foundation upon which this list is built, and upon which I'm able to serve. I have a servant's heart, and that doesn't come from Gene Mattingly, but something much greater than myself.

Random Thoughts from an Airman (airmen basic through lieutenant colonel):

1. Understand what personal integrity is...
2. Be and do your best.
3. Keep a Positive Mental Attitude (PMA).
4. Care more about others than you care about yourself.
5. Do something that shows you care more for someone else.
6. Find something and make it better ... then, do it again, and again, and again ...
7. Appreciate mentorship, and seek it out. Ask questions.
8. Get some education. Then, get some more...never stop learning.
9. Learn to love people, and they'll love you back.
10. Do the best job in the job you're in, and yes, go above and beyond.
11. Don't be afraid to work a little overtime.
12. Read on leadership AND followership--be a dynamic follower.
13. Moderation is key. Eating, drinking, exercising, yes, even working.
14. Set goals (near, mid-term, and long-term), and most importantly write them down and review them.
15. Don't blame others...move on.
16. Take Responsibility.
17. Enjoy life, responsibly.
18. Don't live or put yourself into a state of confusion--figure out life, get on with life--be mature!