COMMENTARY: What's your Air Force legacy?

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jason R. Ramirez
  • 100th Civil Engineer Squadron first sergeant
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  As a firefighter and leader in the Air Force, I wake up every morning thankful and focused to live out the motto "courage to act, ability to perform and desire to serve." 

This is an attitude and choice I consciously make to prepare for the seen and unforeseen challenges to come. Over the past 15 years of service, I have realized from day one that our decisions, no matter how big or small, can have a ripple effect on our Airmen, community and families. What can we do daily to ensure we leave a legacy that can positively impact everyone around us? 

First is having the "courage to act." We all must build our lives and shape our service on the foundation of the Air Force core values: Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in All We Do. These are just words on paper unless you choose to live it and put these values to action. It takes courage and commitment to stay on track during the difficult and challenging times. As responsibilities increase with each rank, the daily impact (either good or bad) on your day to day interactions with Airmen influence positive or negative behaviors.

Mentorship is the critical connection that causes the most growth for individuals providing the guidance and feedback then sharing that experience to the next generation of Airmen.

Next is the "ability to perform." Seek the training to accomplish your duties and responsibilities in the most effective and efficient manner. This constant personal reassessment will not only raise your performance level, but can also motivate the team around you. Learn to communicate expectations and find innovative ways to perform better.  Vince Lombardi, the legendary Green Bay Packers football coach, once said, "Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we will catch excellence."

Finally, is the "desire to serve."  This is accomplished with the right attitude and intent. Each of us have crucial pieces to the Air Force mission to fly, fight and win in air, space, and cyberspace.  Better quality performance is like pixels on a high definition TV, giving greater clarity and focus on the vision to achieve the mission.

Your personal motivations will dictate how you perform and the time you invest will show how much of a priority a task or action is valued. Service is the foundation to which we develop as professional Airmen. Not only for me, but for us as a cohesive unit! Service before self means dedication and commitment to the mission.

Your legacy will transcend your military career; we all will be an ancestor to someone. Live the Air Force core values and honor those who will come after us by providing valuable guidance and mentorship at every opportunity.

Have the courage to act appropriately in all situations, ensure you have the ability to perform to your highest potential, and serve with complete ownership. The impact of your actions will leave a legacy, it's your responsibility to live our core values and carry on our Air Force heritage. You only have a finite time to make a lasting impression.