CMSAF McKinley visits Whiteman

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jason Barebo
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney McKinley learned more about the capabilities of the B-2 stealth bomber during a visit here April 7 and 8.

"I talk about the capabilities of the B-2 a lot and I have never visited the base," Chief McKinley said. " I decided it was about time that I come visit and learn more about the B-2 myself and get up close to see it."

In addition to touring the B-2, Chief McKinley also met Airmen to discuss issues they may have, answer questions and thank them and their families for their service.

During his visit, Chief McKinley sat down for a brief interview:

What is your leadership philosophy?

I think you need to treat people with dignity and respect. You need to utilize what is sometimes a seldom used skill, listening. You need to be fair and consistent with how you treat all Airmen. Treat people the way that you would want to be treated, practice our Air Force Core Values and make sure you put the Air Force priorities out there: win the war on terrorism, develop and care for Airmen and recapitalization.

What boils down to leadership is how you treat people. And, hopefully, the goal of leadership is to inspire people to do things they may have not done before and to the best of their ability.

What has changed since you joined the Air Force?

I joined the Air Force in 1974 and of course there have been lots of changes when you talk about equipment. We have significantly less bases and people than before.

The most significant change is the quality of our Airmen today. Our Airmen now are very smart, intelligent, educated and very technically smart. When I joined, we didn't have computers.

The quality of our Airmen today is just unbelievable. We will always have equipment changes, but I think the most significant change is the quality of our Airmen.

How can Airmen get the most out of their Air Force experience?

Airmen need to be a sponge, they need to try to learn as much as they possibly can. Whatever job they have, they should learn to do that job the best they can.

Always treat people with dignity and respect and always do the right thing.

Also, be involved with your squadron and your wingmen. Play intramural sports. Do things in the local community. Join a professional organization.

Continue your education and take advantage of your tuition assistance.

Develop a good budget to control finances and save money for your future.

Get out there and have a thirst to learn about our enlisted heritage. We have such a rich heritage that if you read about it you would be very proud of the Airmen of our past and that would make you even prouder to be an Airman today.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Airmen who may want to make the Air Force a career?

I think Airmen need to determine their own path and see what the needs are for them and their family. I want Airmen to serve and be happy serving where you are. If Airmen choose to continue with an Air Force career, I am very thankful for that.

Airmen need to be very educated about the benefits of staying in the Air Force and making the Air Force a career and before they decide to get out of the Air Force. Rate the benefits of getting out versus the benefits of staying in the Air Force.

Sometimes we have Airmen make the rash decision to separate too quickly and when they get out there isn't an opportunity to come back in.

Airman should think about where they want to be in life before they make a rash decision to separate. If they decide to stay in the Air Force, the sky is the limit, they can basically do anything they want to do. It's up to them, it's about effort and passion for studying for promotion and be the best at their job.

If you want to make the Air Force a career, have passion and pride for being an Airman.