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NEWS | June 13, 2011

Chief's Corner - Helpful reminders during the CI

By Chief Master Sgt. Christopher L. Womack 11th Logistics Readiness Squadron superintendent

We have all watched time slip away as we diligently worked to ensure the programs we run are compliant for the on-going inspection. With the Compliance Inspection upon us, there are a couple of things that we should remind ourselves of during this time.

Although CI's can be challenging, they should be viewed as a positive experience. Inspections provide an opportunity and the time required to perform a detailed scrub of the programs that we manage on a daily basis and fix problem areas. Ultimately, it is a chance to show off the outstanding support and services provided by the "Chief's Own." Each person is vital and affects our success during the inspection, not only through the programs we manage but through the attitudes and professionalism we display. Displaying a positive attitude and being enthusiastic is contagious and influences the attitudes of those around you. Take time to view problems as opportunities and think through the situation to develop creative solutions. Understand the importance of your position in the wing and know how you impact our ability to provide presidential support to our Airmen and their families.

Communication is always key to any operation and excelling during any inspection is not possible without effective communication. Communication within our work centers, with senior leadership and with the inspectors will be an imperative component during the inspection. If you need additional information, simply, ask for it. If you do not know the answer to a question, know where you can find it. Do not be apprehensive about using your continuity books, AFIs, co-workers or supervisors to assist you when you need help. None of us are in this alone and it will take each of us working together as a team to be successful.

As the Major Accident Response portion of the inspection gets underway remember to remain flexible, display a sense of urgency and immerse yourself in the scenarios. There is no doubt if there were a real situation that all involved would put every effort into responding to the situation. All too often after action reports show complacency and an attitude that the exercise only involves the first responders. Nothing could be further from the truth, and each of us needs to consciously capture that single minded sense of purpose that we would have during a real situation. By carefully evaluating the events in each scenario and how they affect your duty section you, will be able to maintain a level of realism that will enhance our ability to appropriately and decisively respond to any situation.

When all is said and done, the CI score will be both objective and subjective. The objective aspects will come from our ability to successfully complete our mission objectives. The more subjective components of the inspection will reflect our attitudes and willingness to decisively respond in different situations. The inspectors understand that there might be some problems that arise under certain situations. However, it is how we deal with those problematic situations that will make the difference.