A little bit of pride goes a long way

  • Published
  • By by Lt. Col. Scott B. Matthews
  • 51st Civil Engineer Squadron commander
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 51st Civil Engineer Squadron's motto is "Pride."  
 
Pride has many definitions, but simply being proud of what you do allows you to hold your head higher and stand taller. 

From the flight line to the food serving line, it is easy to identify the proud members of Team Osan. What sets these individuals apart? Start by taking pride in yourself, your workplace and your community. 

Pride in Yourself. First, reflect on your education, training, and job performance. Are you the individual others seek out for answers and guidance? Have you completed your upgrade training, degree and professional military education? Are you giving 110 percent each and every day? If not, why not and what are you doing to close the gap? 

Second, assess your personal fitness. Are you physically fit? Do you make healthy food choices on a daily basis? Can you pass the Air Force fitness test on any given day? If not, what is your get well plan? 

Finally, examine your dress and appearance. Are you within or do you exceed the Air Force standards? Are your uniforms clean and properly maintained? Do you present a professional image in and out of uniform? Once you have developed pride in yourself, you can work to instill pride in your workplace. 

Pride in Your Workplace. Understanding how your organization is viewed by others, workplace morale and facility condition are instrumental to developing pride in your workplace. 

What is the reputation of your organization? Do you meet your suspenses and deadlines? Are you known as the group that always delivers no matter the circumstances? Check the health of your group. How is the morale and team spirit? Are teams recognized for their performance? Do people enjoy coming to work every day? If not, what are you doing to reverse the trend?  
 
Survey your working conditions. Maintaining Osan's facilities and infrastructure are a challenge. What can you do? Take care of what you have, no matter the age or condition. Has your facility manager submitted work orders for repairs that need to be accomplished? Have you considered a self-help project? A new coat of paint and replacing burned out light bulbs can make an immediate impact to your work place. You'd be surprised how a positive workplace setting positively impacts everyone who comes through. 

Pride in Your Community. Taking pride in your community requires you to be a good neighbor, look out for the environment and volunteer. 

Osan is a growing community with limited real estate. As the base expands vertically, good neighbors are needed in housing and the local community. 

Are you a good neighbor? Are you respectful and treat others as you want to be treated? Have you taken the time to learn the local language and culture? 

Base appearance is another aspect of community pride. Are you proud of where you live? Do you pick up loose trash or do you walk by the problem? Are you leaving Osan a better place than when you arrived? 

Finally, are you sharing your gifts with others? Have you volunteered to coach youth sports or tutor a struggling student? Are you singing in the chapel choir, helping those less fortunate, or teaching CPR and first aid? 

These are just a few examples of opportunities to share your talents and gifts with others during your Osan tour. It is your contribution that makes you a proud member of Team Osan. Thank you for taking pride and making Osan Air Base a great place to live and work.