Accountability: Be Accountable

**Specifically for the "Crusaders" at the 42 ABW, Maxwell AFB, AL; however, it is applicable for any / all!

It is amazing how much trouble (and money we will spend) in the name of providing “professional development” to our team.? For some strange reason many believe that if they spend money on professional development, then that means that it is of higher quality and that it will be better for their Airmen … their warfighters.

Think back to how many professional development seminars that you have been to or sent your Airmen to. How many of them were built from or had a foundation that was tied back to a mainstream, commercial, or civilian sector “leader” or “leadership philosophy”? The big names, right?? That must mean that it is good, and that “leader” must be the best…right?? These “leaders” have millions of views on their social media, they pack out Ted Talks, and they are sought after by the fortune 500 companies to speak to their Human Recourse departments.?

We are not implying these leaders aren’t good, they may even be great, but they are not warfighters, and it is not probable that they are able to adequately speak to the heart of a warrior.? It is simply not their lane. Our challenge, our responsibility is to professionally develop our warfighters and to not out-source it to the civil sector. Most are indeed good people, but as you notice, they aren’t doing it for free…money talks. There may even be some that have walked in our boots before, but again, it is back to the money….PD with a new name.? We have PLENTY of coaches and development SMEs in our force!

Leaders in the Profession of Arms, have the responsibility to develop, coach, and inspire our Airmen…our warfighters, which is undoubtedly hinged on accountability.? You are undoubtedly the best equipped to execute this vital mission.? Look around. Standards (pick any of them) are not being followed.? There are many reasons, but some may point back to the type of development that we have outsourced that has not focused on accountability, it focused on other skills that aren’t as vital to warriors.? That time and mission approach is over, period dot.

There is a reason that accountability is the first of the 24 foundational competencies and the one that we are hyper focused on in Basic Military Training.? That focus should not stop after BMT.? Accountability?is when an Airman demonstrates reliability and honesty, and takes responsibility for their actions.

An Airman’s rank, and position will change; however, accountability is the key to their career success. Accountable Airmen look after their wingmen, uphold Air Force standards and core values, keep promises, admit mistakes and take personal responsibility for their actions

Observable behaviors for accountability: Leads by example, takes personal responsibility for self and unit performance and models professionalism and excellence in every endeavor. When accountability is present, Airmen act and make decisions even when it is difficult.

Save the charisma for social media and lead our Airmen with courage, character, and competence … our very existence depends on it!