Not another Air Force slogan: New 31 FW commander defines AF core values

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Austin Harvill
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The new 31st Fighter Wing commander, Brig. Gen. Lance Landrum, shared his views on leadership through selflessness, individual responsibility, the zone of authority and passion.

“Airmen need to have a strong sense of self to best execute any mission set before them,” said Landrum. “Confidence in training and leadership, humility when in the wrong, and a personal, honest desire for excellence comprise a star Airman’s attitude.”

Landrum said the Air Force core values act as a guide for all Airmen.

“I believe in the core values, but not because my bosses tell me I have to,” said Landrum. “I look at them as a path to personal growth, which in turn leads to a better Airman and leader for the Air Force.”

The general also said following the core values can help Airmen make hard decisions.

“It’s not easy to tell a friend they made a mistake at their job, or that they had too much to drink and shouldn’t drive,” said Landrum. “We need to have the confidence and guts to say ‘No, this is the right thing to do.’ That is the essence of ‘never leave an Airman behind.’ You resolve the situation, you don’t just ride with your buddy into the ground.”

Landrum said he relies on a three-legged “stool” of support comprised of policy, leadership and individual responsibility. Policy, he said, should be the bedrock of confident decision making.

“The Air Force has given us the instructions to succeed through technical orders, Air Force instructions, training plans and so on,” said Landrum. “If we follow policies and use our best judgment, but still make a mistake, then we have an opportunity for growth. We can’t do everything flawlessly, and I can’t fault someone for doing their best with what they have.”

Landrum believes leaders at all levels should enforce policies and encourage Airmen to confidently maneuver within their zones of authority.

“A competent, active and visible leader gives Airmen confidence to make decisions without someone constantly watching over them,” said Landrum. “They see their leaders will have their back and, coupled with training programs, our Airmen will use their energy for innovation to create new solutions.”

Finally, the general said success stems mostly from each Airman’s responsibility to strive for excellence.

“People sometimes take shortcuts toward excellence when they think it doesn’t matter, but it always matters,” said Landrum. “If we don’t strive for excellence in everyday little things, we won’t rise to the challenge when confronted with larger and more important issues.”

The balance of life and duty also leads to excellence through recuperation, said Landrum.

“Sometimes we have to surge and say ‘I will get it done,’ and we have to apologize to our families later,” said Landrum. “That shouldn’t be the norm, though. Our leaders should have the flexibility to prevent leaning on our Airmen too hard, and I trust they will exercise that freedom for the benefit of our team.”

According to the general, he values the stability of Team Aviano and has no intention of changing the wing’s focus. He only expects the continued excellence he has already seen.

“I’m beyond excited to work with Aviano Airmen and I couldn’t be more proud to represent them,” said Landrum. “The leaders before me have done an excellent job here and I will do everything I can to improve upon their work and lead the 31st Fighter Wing as the best fighter wing in the European theater.”