U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth chief to serve as the Air Force’s top enlisted Airman, speaks to Airmen inside the Reef dining facility on Hurlburt Field, Fla., Sept. 14, 2012. Gaylor spoke about the importance of having a positive attitude during an ever -changing Air Force. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class Naomi M. Griego)
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth chief to serve as the Air Force’s top enlisted Airman, listens to an Airman’s question inside the Reef dining facility on Hurlburt Field, Fla., Sept. 14, 2012. Gaylor said it is important to never become complacent in one’s job. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class Naomi M. Griego)
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth chief to serve as the Air Force’s top enlisted Airman, speaks to Airmen at the Commando Pride Airmen Center on Hurlburt Field, Fla., Sept. 14, 2012. In his speech, Gaylor spoke said that Airmen should be responsible for their own actions. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class Naomi M. Griego)
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth chief to serve as the Air Force’s top enlisted Airman, listens to Airmen at the Airman Leadership School on Hurlburt Field, Fla., Sept. 14, 2012. Gaylor spoke about aptitude, attitude and motivation on his visit. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class Naomi M. Griego)
by Airman 1st Class Naomi Griego
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
9/18/2012 - HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The fifth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force visited locations on Hurlburt Field Sept. 14 to talk with Airmen about how aptitude, attitude and motivation can create opportunity.
During his visit retired Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor had breakfast with Airmen from various units on base. He spoke to them about the importance of furthering their education.
"I think every once in a while, we need to ask how am I doing?" Gaylor said, "Am I on target?"
Gaylor said it's vital to make sure that Airmen never become complacent within their positions and always seek opportunities to better themselves whether it is with formal education or skills training.
In addition Gaylor also visited the Commando Pride Airmen Center and spoke to Airmen about the importance of having a positive outlook on life. He stressed how each individual has the power to effect change with an optimistic attitude.
"There is nothing to be gained by constantly complaining," Gaylor said. "Dazzle the Air Force with your attitude."
In an allegory about parachuting, Gaylor referenced how vital it is to be responsible for our own actions.
"Who packs your chute?" Gaylor asked.
Airmen at the Airman Leadership School also had the opportunity to listen to Gaylor speak. He stressed that as new NCOs, they needed to maintain motivation and not just within their Airmen, but within themselves. Gaylor said that during difficult times they must learn to persevere. And as leaders, they need to help others.
"Rely on faith, friendship, family, strength and the Air Force," he said.
In summation, Gaylor's listed his key points as aptitude, attitude and motivation can all create opportunity.
"Take your job seriously, and take yourself lightly," Gaylor said.
