Find your inspiration Published April 19, 2017 By Master Sgt. Daira Hall 71st Operations Group first sergeant VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- I recently read an article that discussed the need to prepare young military officers for the future battlefield. It used phrases like “burden of freedom,” “organized anarchy,” “creative chances,” “intellectual courage” and “delicate alchemy.” However, when we truly explore what it takes today’s greatest Air Force to operate in the battlefield, it all boils down to people. We, as a force, need to have moral character and stamina. We need to exercise emotional and social intelligence. The discussion needs to include recognizing that relationships and understanding are key components to our success. Although we all joined for different reasons, we ultimately stay in and continue to serve because we are part of something bigger than ourselves. Service to our country requires a commitment and a pursuit of excellence. Each person who wears the uniform demonstrates resolve and dedication that is unmatched in the civilian world. On June 6, 1944, the Allied powers crossed the English Channel to land on the beaches of Normandy, France. Those warriors were mere mortals, much like you and me. They illustrated tenacity, courage and duty. Nobel Prize winner Arthur Lewis said, “To achieve excellence one must have self discipline to practice the same thing over and over again while others are enjoying themselves; to push oneself from the easy part to the hard part; to listen to criticism and use it; to reject one’s own work and try again. Only the humble achieve excellence, since only the humble can learn.” I encourage each and every one of you -- continue to inspire and be inspired.