First Sergeant's thoughts on standards

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Adrian Galcik
  • Air Force Life Cycle Management Center
Back in June 2024, Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, Air Combat Command commander, sent out a command wide memo directing all ACC wings to conduct unit-level open ranks inspections and records inspections.

“As an all-volunteer force, we willingly relinquish a portion of our individual freedoms in order to be part of an elite team,” Gen. Ken Wilsbach, commander of ACC, wrote in the memorandum. “An essential element to being part of this elite team is the high standards we hold as an institution. Adherence to higher standards of conduct, dress and appearance, physical fitness, and the observance of customs and courtesies are critical to our identity as military members.” 

While Air Force Materiel Command hasn’t implemented mandatory uniform or records inspections its Airmen are encouraged to check that they are not only meeting the standards but exceeding them. Airmen and Guardians within AFLCMC should already know that the first Monday of the month is blues Monday. This is a monthly opportunity to ensure that your uniform is up to date and that you’re doing your best to uphold a strong observance toward dress and appearance and guidance from leaders.

Growing up, my dad was a crew chief on HC-1 and HC-2 helicopters, where attention to detail was crucial—deciding factors between mission success and failure. He often reminded me that even a single misplaced operational instruction could have dire consequences. He would say, “Adrian, haircuts make planes fall out of the sky.” At first, I thought he was being dramatic, but after joining the service, I truly grasped his message. He taught me that allowing even one standard to slip can lead to a cascade of failures, ultimately resulting in life-or-death situations. While it might sound extreme, this principle aligns perfectly with our core values.

Self-adherence to military standards goes back to our Air Force core values: integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do. For example, knowing that on Sunday you need to shave before Monday so that you’re looking your best in uniform instead of hoping that nobody notices you didn’t shave the day before. Checking to ensure your hair is within regulation standards prior to coming to work and being told to either pull it up, or going to get a haircut at lunch. By taking personal responsibility and accountability in making sure you’re adhering to standards set place in the AFI demonstrates service before self. This should not only be for yourself but your peers as well. It is better if we hold the line with each other versus a higher leader correcting us. Looking your best in uniform and conducting yourself properly reflects positively on the Air Force.

Remember, personal appearance and first impressions can go a long way. What is instilled and held accountable now sets everyone up for future success.
For the most up to date guidance on dress and appearance service members should review AFI36-2903.