Posted on Mar 16, 2015
Capt Brandon Charters
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I have to say this was an incredibly motivating speech by CMSgt(Ret) Terry Savoie. Take it in pieces as it is a bit long, but not any less inspiring. Chief Savoie makes some hard hitting statements here: Some of my favorite quotes & topics I noted are below.

- "Doesn't matter what your job is, do it to the very best of your ability."
The story is comical as it relates to the Chief's early latrine duties as an airman in the F-4 jet maintenance shop. Until one day he was called out front-and-center in formation: "Airman Savoie, you have done such a wonderful job on the latrine, you are now the newest member of the jet engine test facility."
When he speaks of his joy, you can't help but smile here.

- When he signed an aircraft "ready to fly" he felt as if he was signing for his "Daddy" and "Grandaddy" as his name was a part of a pledge to each pilot.

- Commanders need to "be" the core values. We as leaders need to be fired up and enthusiastic. Your people want to be led.

Overall, Chief Savoie embodies the spirit of a team player. His personality is infectious and he is just plain addicted to winning. Know anyone like this?

Please share your favorite parts and why they resonate with you personally. What are the most important areas to highlight for the next generation of our military?

Lt Col (Join to see) Thanks for sending this over.
Edited >1 y ago
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SMSgt Maintenance Superintendent
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This is an awesome example of just telling the truth, if everyone did what Chief Savoie recommends we would all be better off for it!
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TSgt Joshua Copeland
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Edited >1 y ago
This is an example of a TRUE Chief! I love hearing folks like this that have such a passion for the service. Reminds me of another more recently retired CMSgt that are still preaching the good word to "A" Airmen. Check out CMSgt (Ret) Juan Lewis. He is more famously known as "The Fired Up Chief." When you find folks like this, hold on, they are true life changers!

CMSgt Lewis actually retired 3 years ago today. Check him out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/CMSgt-Juan-Lewis-aka-The-Fired-Up-Chief/ [login to see] 1099?ref=br_tf
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CMSgt Senior Enlisted Leader
CMSgt (Join to see)
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TSgt Joshua Copeland
SMSgt Minister Gerald A. Thomas
Also, if you have never seen this, ABSOLUTELY watch his story. Chief Barraza is an amazing story!!

http://airman.dodlive.mil/2014/01/playing-the-pawn/
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TSgt Joshua Copeland
TSgt Joshua Copeland
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CMSgt (Join to see), I have actually seen that before! One of my troops actually worked for him at her last assignment. Sadly, stories like that will become rarer and rarer in today's Air Force.
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CMSgt Mark Schubert
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Capt Brandon Charters this is great stuff - and I'm grateful I had solid mentors along my way that told me almost all of this before I also became a CMSgt. I think this should be required reading for all senior leaders and recommended for anyone who is thinking about the opportunity to be one.
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