USAF to Security Forces Airmen: Sharpen Up Your Greetings

Senior Air Force leaders have a message for security forces Airmen: Set a better example.

“To security forces: you are expected to set the example by upholding standards and enforcing rules with integrity,” states a Jan. 30 memo from Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach and Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force David R. Wolfe, himself a former security forces Airmen. The memo was posted on the unofficial Air Force amn/nco/snco Facebook page and an Air Force spokesperson confirmed its authenticity.

“The way we greet one another matters,” the memo states. “Professional greetings—at installation entry control points and throughout interactions with the public—must be the standard. First impressions set the tone and when paired with professional image, reinforce trust, authority and pride.”

The Air Force leaders note that visitors’ first impressions when coming on base are set by way in which they are greeted. They praised the approach at one unnamed base.

“At one of our premier bases, Defenders greet patrons with, ‘Good Morning, Sir/Ma’am/General/Chief.  Welcome to ____ AFB. Fight’s On!” the memo states. “This simple phrase signals entry onto a military installation protected by vigilant Defenders and reflects our identity within the profession of arms. Every installation should ensure professional greetings are constantly practiced.”

Wilbach and Wolfe have emphasized standards and professionalism since their arrival, and have also spoken of the importance of feedback from the field, holding commanders accountable for units’ combat readiness, and reemphasizing morale by authorizing callsign nametags and morale T-shirts.

The two have also emphasized appearance standards, now and when Wilsbach and Wolfe were at the top of Air Combat Command, their prior duty station. That continues with this memo.

“A professional miliary image is not superficial—it reflects discipline, attention to detail and commitment to excellence, all of which directly contribute to mission success,” the memo states.

Wilsbach and Wolfe made clear they regard security forces as the “first line of defense” for securing “critical assets at home and abroad.”

“The importance of your role cannot be overstated,” they wrote. “…We place immense trust in you and that trust demands the highest standards of discipline, readiness, professionalism and personal accountability. … Defenders bear heavy responsibilities. You are up to the task.”