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Chief Murray: You are now part of an extraordinary opportunity

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The mission and leadership here equal the perfect technical and combat training appropriate for today, said the 14th Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald Murray during his visit here Oct. 8-9.

He said it was different from the technical training he attended nearly 30 years ago.

"The state-of-the-art equipment we have now between computers and technology and using them to enhance our training -- especially in combat training -- is very different than what I worked with then," he said.

Each Airman should be proud to serve and know they are part of much more than just a military service, he said. They are now part of an extended family and each individual is important to the mission.

"The thing I want Airmen to recognize is that they are part of a world-class organization and institution. What they are providing and giving to their nation is what I want them to get a grasp on, what that really means to them and not only for themselves, but in their personal life and be motivated and satisfied," Chief Murray said.

The career begins for an Airman from the first time he or she steps off the bus at basic military training, he said. The building blocks are enforced and the tools an Airman needs to have a successful career are provided. It is up to the Airman to use these tools.

"The Air Force provides the basic knowledge and training to continue to build on your career," he said. "The rest of the time it is learning to trust that knowledge and let it guide and build you a great career."

He said one thing Airmen should take advantage of while they are in the Air Force is education. However, the education in the classroom is just part of the learning process he said.

"Education is more than just the schooling aspect. Every time you get a new assignment or a new mission there are learning experiences in all of those," he said. "The opportunities and the exposure to the world will help in the success in life."

He said it is about keeping your eyes wide open, "the Air force is an adventure." It's about taking these years of your life in the Air Force and making them the best years of your life.

"You are now part of an extraordinary opportunity. Find the options that are provided to you. It's not always easy; there are challenges. But the more you give, the more you will find that you get out of it," he said.

He said that the mission at Sheppard is a great one and is carried out with vigilance.

"I have a great appreciation of the Airmen, leaders and all the great professionals here at Sheppard who execute the mission so well. It's very reassuring to me that the Air Force is in good hands," Chief Murray said.