19 Sep 2008 --      While watching the Olympic Games this year, I was amazed by the accomplishments and dedication of the competitors. Although I enjoyed watching the events, I found many of the interviews and personal stories more enjoyable. I was particularly impressed with a U.S. sprinter in the Women's 400m event. When a reporter asked her how she felt about winning the Bronze medal, she responded "It is not about me, it is about our country!" What a tremendous demonstration of "Service Before Self," despite her significant personal achievement!
     Of the USAF Core Values, "Integrity First," "Service Before Self," and "Excellence In All We Do;" "Service" is perhaps the most challenging to fully understand. Integrity - got it! Excellence - I understand that! Service before Self.... does it mean we shouldn't set personal goals, or we shouldn't pursue our dreams, or we shouldn't get home to our families if we still have work on our desks...absolutely not! It does mean that our Service is not about us, it is about our Country. As Airmen and government civilians, our focus should be on how we can better support "Our" unit, "Our" mission, and "Our" Air Force - we are professionals committed to a greater purpose than our individual goals and desires.
     Additionally, "Service Before Self" means we must follow applicable Air Force Instructions and Technical Orders, even if there is a more personally convenient or easier way to do something. "Service" also means we must see the value and worth of every individual on our team, even if we don't personally share their beliefs, heritage, or customs. Even if you are a sprinter running your own race, we are all members of a larger team, and if every teammate performs at their best- we will excel!
     It is an honor to serve the United States of America, in the world's greatest Air Force. If all of us pursue our dreams, do our best, treat each other with respect, and do things the right way every time, we should not care about the color of our medal, because Service is not about us, it is about "Our" Country!