New wing commander leads by serving

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jessica Hines
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  It's been 14 years since he last called Italy home, and now, Brig. Gen. Barre Seguin returns to Team Aviano as commander of the 31st Fighter Wing, ready to encourage and motivate Airmen.

"I believe life is about two things: relationship and service," he said to Airmen recently during his first commander's call, where he also took the time to share a little about himself.

Seguin, a Vermont native and lover of New England sports, expressed his excitement for being in Italy once again, supported by his wife of 23 years and their three children, one of whom was born at Aviano during his first tour here.

"I am humbled and honored to serve as the 31st Fighter Wing commander and I'm absolutely thrilled to be back at Aviano," said Seguin, who spent three years as a pilot in the 510th Fighter Squadron, serving as an instructor pilot, assistant operations officer, weapons officer, flight commander and mission commander.

With 17 total assignments spanning more than 25 years, the general's broad military career is only surpassed by his family heritage. Stretching as far back as World War I, the Seguin family roots are intertwined with military history, with more than a dozen previous generation relatives serving across the globe in such operations as D-Day in Europe and the Battle of Leyte in the Philippines.

During his military career, the general has leaned upon the support of what he calls his "Five Fs," which include his faith, family, fellow Airmen, friends and of course, having fun.

"These are what are important to me. Specifically, my faith is absolutely foundational to who and what I am; it is foundational to my resiliency. You need to find what is foundational to yours, in all the pillars of Comprehensive Airman Fitness," he said referring to the four pillars of mental, physical, social and spiritual health in the Air Force.

Many of the general's priorities and beliefs can be traced to his servant-leadership philosophy, which he uses in every aspect of his life. An ongoing student of leadership, Seguin continually aims to expand upon his personal development as a commander.

"I love to read; I always have about two or three books going, usually one of an autobiographical nature, one of an historical nature and one of a leadership nature. I find reading absolutely foundational to my personal growth, particular my growth as a leader," he said.

Upon closing the chapter of his first month at Aviano, his dedication to accomplishing the mission, supporting Airmen and their families as well as building stronger communities is only the beginning for the remainder of his tour.

"Serving peers and subordinates is something we have to work on - on a daily basis - to meet the needs of those entrusted to our care and those we're working hand-in-hand with to accomplish the mission. I ask that you consider that in your daily actions and interactions," he said.

"Serve those whom you lead."