An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

"Send Me": Embracing Change to Support the Nation

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Mark Hayes
  • 2nd Fighter Squadron commander
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  We in the Air Force all know that only one thing is certain - change. Where will you be and what will you be doing in five years? In 10 years? Will you still be a contracting officer, F-15 avionics specialist or airfield manager? To order to support the Global War on Terror, we must embrace change in this long war.

You should think of yourself as an officer, NCO, or contractor supporting the military and its mission. I like to think of myself as an Air Force officer and a 325th Fighter Wing warrior. My current assignment, as part of the Tyndall team, is to ensure Air Dominance for the United States and its allies. We have all played an intrinsic part in this vital capability. Tyndall is the root of this national capability. Air Dominance is the reason we have been as successful at achieving our goals as a total military force. American Air Dominance has relieved our combatant commanders and ground troops from overhead threats since April 1953. We will continue to need this capability for future wars.

Unfortunately, since 9/11, we have been taking a fight to an enemy that will not meet us on the open battlefield; and we must embrace the fact that the rules of this war have changed our way of doing business. As an officer, my first priority is to support the GWOT and tackle all of the challenges associated with that task. Air Dominance will continue to be an essential element in this long war, and as times and threats change, we must be flexible in order to assure supremacy of the skies.

In five years, what role will you play in our Air Force as it takes the fight to the enemy? Are you an NCO first, at war in the post 9/11 world, or are you an F-15 expediter. I like to think you are an NCO and a warrior first. You just so happen to currently be assigned expediter duties in the 'World's Greatest Air Dominance Fighter.' Your job title does not define your role as a United States Air Force Airman.

There are 34,000 Airmen deployed around the world. If chosen to deploy, will you execute the mission like Master Sgt. George Price Jr., one of the 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year? He neutralized 986 IEDs, survived multiple attacks, saved a Soldier's life and captured six terrorists...not all of which are in his job title. The specific abilities and courage that Sergeant Price exhibited played a pivotal role in our nation's ability to take the fight to the enemy. I hope we would all perform as well as he did when faced with such dire circumstances. If you're interested in making a difference in the Air Force, the military, the United States or in the world, you will have many opportunities to do so. Your skills in finance, contracting, or scheduling will still be needed. However, you may also be called upon to support ground component commanders in roles like Sergeant Price and over 3,800 other Airmen who continue to support this war outside their duty title today.

These challenging times of change must be embraced as we adapt strategies and tactics to ensure success. We in the Air Force are great at adapting to change and leveraging technologies to combat our enemies. Seeing the great work that my fellow Airmen do, and the differences they are making, motivates me to continue serving our country. It motivates me to improve myself and to try and make a larger contribution to our efforts. Some folks may be put off with all of the changes occurring, but for me it is truly exciting.

What will I be doing in five years? I'm fairly sure I will not be flying an F-15, but I am absolutely certain that I will be making a difference in the Global War on Terror. Whether I move on to Cyber Space opportunities, contribute to the Spec Ops missions, or take the fight directly to the enemy on a day-to-day basis through the Predator or Reaper, I am motivated - "Send Me." Every one of us truly makes a difference.

On a personal note, since this long war is expected to last for decades, I want to do my part to make a contribution towards victory and peace, so that my son and daughter live in a world that is better than it is today. If we cannot win this war before my time in the Air Force is through, I at least hope that we 'prep the battlefield' so that our sons and daughters can take up the mission from a better position, if they choose to do so in their time. Our story and contributions will be the legends of the future. Let's lead this country to victory!