First Sergeant's Corner: Belonging

  • Published
  • By SMSgt Adrian Galcik, First Sergeant, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center

The AFMC Connect topic for July is "belonging" which is defined as an affinity for a place or situation. Belonging in the Air Force is more than just being a part of an organization: it embodies a profound commitment to service, excellence, and a shared sense of purpose. The men and women who join the Air Force dedicate themselves to protecting their nation's skies and upholding a legacy of honor, integrity, and courage that fills all who volunteer to serve with pride.

At its core, belonging to the Air Force is about embracing a unique identity forged through rigorous training, unwavering discipline, and a deep-seated respect for the chain of command and fellow airmen. This identity is built upon the principles of teamwork and camaraderie, where every individual's role is pertinent to the collective mission. Whether serving as a pilot, maintainer, defender, medic, acquisitions, or logistician etc., each airman's duty is to ensure the Air Force operates seamlessly and effectively as one well-oiled machine. Belonging in the Air Force extends beyond the confines of duty stations and deployments. It encompasses a commitment to personal growth, and professional development supported by a robust network of chosen mentors and peers. These mentors and peers play one of the most crucial roles in shaping the careers and lives of other airmen, providing guidance, support, and fostering a sense of belonging. This sense of belonging in the Air Force is deeply rooted in shared experiences and the unwavering support of our fellow airmen thus leading to a strong sense of connection and robust support network.

When I was initially selected as a First Sergeant, I was ecstatic: this was a major career goal and dream of mine, yet, I didn’t know if I would be accepted or have a sense of belonging to the squadrons that I would inevitably be placed in. Before attending First Sergeant Academy, I was chosen to go to AMXS, the largest squadron on Minot Air Force Base. Going to a large squadron as a brand-new diamond was unheard of, but the Command Chief told me I was what the squadron needed. Upon arrival, the week was semi-quiet, which allowed me to learn about the diverse structure, two separate aircraft maintenance units, and how it impacted the world. Yet the quiet squadron turned into the busy one. In the following weeks, multiple disciplinary actions, investigations, and late-night phone calls introduced me to my next 18 months. In full transparency, I felt like I was drowning. This is where the First Sergeant Council, my team, played a crucial role. They provided a support system that made me feel secure, cared for, and a sense of belonging. They visited, checked on me, allowed me to ask questions, state my thoughts, and, most importantly, be ME. Their support was instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges I faced.

Then COVID-19 happened! The council knew this pandemic would impact not only our Airmen but all of us. We ensured that everyone felt like they belonged to the mission and the Air Force. We leaned on each other, helped each other, and ensured that we cared for our Airmen regardless of unit. Even when our Airmen returned home from being a part of Continued Bomber Presence (CBP), we all collaborated to put together a parade where all the Commanders, Chiefs, and First Sergeants were a part of to welcome them home. We connected with all the chaplains to help check on the Airmen confined to the hotel, since they had to quarantine for 14 days. Mr. John Jeziorske was hired as the Community Support Coordinator, and he witnessed how we cared for each other, the Airmen, and the installation. Mr. J helped us with the efforts trying to navigate DUIs, drugs, domestic violence, and provided additional training for our own edification. Even though Mr. J was retired, he was part of our family ensuring that we knew we belonged. Mr. J poured into us with guidance and mentorship, showing us that we belonged to not the installation but the Air Force. SMSgt Sergio Gonzales, our senior diamond, ensured the council stayed together, guided us, and had the hard conversations, but like any fantastic leader, he was there with us in lockstep for literally anything we needed, to ensure we knew we belonged.

Belonging to the Air Force also means embracing, adapting, and innovating in the face of ever evolving challenges. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, council members went out of their way to ensure that a strong sense of belonging was instilled in all First Sergeants. We were a family that was there for each other. This sense of belonging empowered us to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity and generated a sense of resilience and empowerment. Without my teammates, Retired MSgt Megan Peterson, Retired MSgt Brandi Alston, Retired MSgt Andrew Keeley, Retired MSgt Justin McGovern, Retired MSgt Moses Ellis, Retired MSgt Nicholas Lueschen, MSgt Ray Salvador, Mr. John Jezoriskie and SMSgt Sergio Gonzales, I can honestly say I wouldn’t be the First Sergeant I am today without them.

The pride that comes with belonging to the Air Force is palpable. It’s a shared heritage of courage and sacrifice, all the way from the legacy of General Hap Arnold to the heroism displayed in countless missions around the globe. I encourage all Airmen to draw strength from this legacy, knowing they stand on the shoulders of giants and are charged with carrying forward a tradition of valor and service. Belonging to the Air Force transcends mere membership, it represents a profound commitment to duty, honor, and country. It is a journey marked by challenges, growth, and camaraderie. This journey transforms individuals into airmen and in turn morphs airmen into a cohesive force dedicated to defending freedom and upholding the highest ideals. The Air Force's mission to defend freedom and uphold the highest ideals is a noble one and every airman plays a crucial role in fulfilling this mission. To belong in the Air Force is to embody the spirit of service and excellence that defines the world's premier aerospace force.

"You only are free when you realize you belong no place - you belong every place - no place at all. The price is high. The reward is great.” -- Maya Angelou (1973).