Put on 'game face' for inspectors

  • Published
  • By Col. Bryan Benson
  • 71st Flying Training Wing
Vance Air Force Base, Okla. --  Team Vance, there are 10 days remaining before we strut our stuff for the Operational Readiness Inspection team. Our ORI Preparation Team of Lt. Col. David Marshall, Maj. Stephen Mollick and Capt. Craig Lowery did the advance work and provided volumes of data and information to the IG inspectors. They have tracked our team's progress as we've reviewed our programs and documentation. We also practiced and exercised -- the team is ready. We know we are safely and effectively accomplishing our mission of training the world's best military pilots.
What's left before we're fully prepared to meet the inspectors in 10 days? The most important part, the piece of the puzzle that can make the difference between "Satisfactorily" passing the inspection and passing the inspection with an "Outstanding" rating is you -- the individual team member.
It's time to put on your "game face." Your attitude is as important as your aptitude. People are what make the difference in ORI results; all the other factors make for a somewhat level playing field among bases. We all have the basic resources to meet the mission, but your attitudes are what will make Team Vance stand out.
We can show that winning attitude by our adherence to dress and appearance standards, how sharply we salute or call buildings to attention for senior officers. We need to show a sense of urgency in everything we do while the inspectors are here. We know we're ready, but our attitude and sense of urgency will showcase Team Vance's exceptional performance.
Take a final look around your areas. Are weeds growing around the building? Do your bulletin boards have all the required information and are they located in the proper places? These may seem like minor things compared to your duties and mission accomplishment, but these things show your attention to detail and make a powerful first impression. Sometimes they may get overlooked because no one has direct responsibility, so each of you can make a difference by accepting that responsibility and taking care of any and all of these last few details.
In the short time I've been here, I've come to know you are the world's best flying training wing. Just let the attitude I've witnessed show through during the inspection and the IG team will also be equally impressed. Have a safe and enjoyable weekend and don't forget to watch your wingman. Thanks for all you do for America, Team Vance.