Air Force downsizing... Does anybody think only the best of the best will stay in the Air Force?

2014-12-11 17:56:16 -0500

Read Matthew Gjertsen article: The Air Force’s Mixed Messaging Problem
http://taskandpurpose.com/air-forces-mixed-messaging-problem/

The Air Force’s Mixed Messaging Problem

The Air Force's sentiment that whoever chooses to stay or go doesn’t impact the force is both untrue and damaging to the future of the military.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 6:31 PM

2014-12-11 18:31:31 -0500

I see the author's point, MSgt Donald G., but I also agree with story about the busload of new generals: NOBODY is irreplaceable. If the absolute top dog leaves, then #2 becomes the top dog. There is quality across the force (all branches), so if quality folks leave, there will still be quality folks left to serve. I think this issue (worry?) may be overblown in this article.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2015 12:13 PM

2015-01-13 12:13:57 -0500

There are incentives to leave. Are there incentives to stay? Those with better options outside of the military will take the incentives to make the leap. Military pay and benefits calculated as the total package might outpace civilian growth in some sectors, but not all. Only within the military will you find an HR representative and a medical doctor making the same amount of money (based on rank). We've accepted a system that attracts and most benefits the mediocre. The Air Force is not a meritocracy. The author's point regarding the dispensiblity of everyone, including those most invested in our service's future, Illustrates that reality perfectly.