Profession of Arms is Mandatory

  • Published
  • By Major Danzel Albertsen
  • Commander, 436th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  A little over three or four weeks ago I was sitting at my computer and noticed a new icon "Profession of Arms." It had our Air Force symbol on it and drew my attention. Not sure who put it there or why it was there but since I am all about learning, I clicked on it and the "America's Air Force a Profession of Arms," dated July 2015 appeared. Twelve pages of great knowledge and one of the easiest books I have ever read to date. I started asking around and many had not noticed the new icon so I figured if it was worthy to appear on every US Air Force unclassified computer it is important to make sure all Airmen are aware.

Today, September 18, 2015 is the Air Force's 68th Birthday and I believe this subject fits perfectly into why we are who we are.  

I hope each of you takes the time to read the book and I think it is important to cover a few topics. We are entrusted as a servant to our nation to do our best in the profession of arms. We take and accept oaths freely to protect our Constitution so our nation can continue to grow strong and enable us to have and keep the freedoms it provides. 

Our Air Force Core Values help give us the direction needed that fortifies our foundation to our service. They are usually instilled into us as children and then expand as we age. Does each of us accept these Core Values of Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in All We Do?

The Code of Conduct reassures each of us the obligation we owe our country and fellow service members. This is something I think we should read prior to deploying and at least yearly to help everyone remember we are never alone and we have a responsibility to protect each other and our nation no matter the situation. It is ingrained in each of us to survive honorably and we must always be prepared if we are taken as a prisoner of war or held in hostile detention.

The Airman's Creed is valuable to understand and is recited at many events. It is important for each of us to understand our foundation leading to the fundamental war fighting beliefs it lays out. Airmen are truly warriors who support the mission no matter the task or AFSC and are dedicated to flying, fighting and winning. Take the time and read each line and think of the history of where we as the United States Air Force have gone and will go.

I ask each of you, is there a higher calling or standard to achieve? I believe every one of us is a professional and we have sworn to protect our Constitution and will do everything we need by following these key principles. Through learning from history and future innovation we will continue to ensure our Constitution will be safe for centuries on end.

We will not fail, because, we cannot accept the alternative. The US Air Force is a profession of arms and is mandatory without fault for each of us to live by to enable the US to prosper as a nation. I salute each and every one of you who are, or who have worn a uniform, on your efforts in support of the greatest Air Force in the world. I am proud to be serving next to each one of you. I ask each of you to take some time this week and click the icon and read the best 12 page book in the world. 

Last, Happy Birthday to the United States Air Force!!!!