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Monday, August 07, 2006
Letter
to Airmen: Every Airman a Communicator
Because of our Airmen, the United States Air Force
is the best air and space force in the world and we're
gaining leadership in cyberspace. Yet many citizens do not
fully realize what you do and the sacrifices you make every
day. Because you do your job so well, most Americans simply
don't think about the Air Force's contribution to the Global
War on Terror - to include the efforts of those of you
serving on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan.
To get this message out, we've embarked on an enhanced
Strategic Communication program. Our Strategic Communication
efforts will build better relationships with key audiences
and the support that is critical to operational success,
force modernization, and the development of our most
precious resource: Airmen.
Our major enhancement is you. The success of this
effort will rely on making every Airman an ambassador for
our Air Force, at home and abroad. Your stories resonate the
most with local newspapers, schools, and rotary clubs. The
American public looks up to you as a model of integrity, and
by sharing your experiences you are the best spokesmen for
our Air Force.
This responsibility means that Airmen must understand
air, space and cyberspace power and how the Air Force
contributes to the Nation's defense. To assist you, we will
soon distribute "The Air Force Story," which will provide
you with information to discuss with family, friends, and
the public.
Those Airmen who have deployed should have an "Airman's
Card," available from your commander or Public Affairs
office. This card will help guide your communication
efforts. It reminds you that when telling your story, "You
represent the Air Force, its values, and its image. Be
honest, candid, and stay within your area of expertise."
The new Air Force advertising campaign, "Do Something
Amazing," harnesses the power of your individual story.
These television and Internet videos feature our outstanding
Airmen describing the contributions they make every day to
our nation's defense. One person's story carries the hopes
and dreams of a new generation of Airmen and confirms the
public's belief that we serve on their behalf.
I encourage you to show your pride and share both your
personal story and the Air Force story with others. Your
active involvement in this communications strategy will help
the public better understand their Air Force and the
contribution we make to the Nation's security every day.
You are the finest Airmen the world has ever seen. Be
proud of yourself, your Air Force, and your heritage. Our
Air Force is counting on you to communicate your story like
no one else can.
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