Leadership is not measured by rank

  • Published
  • By Capt. Raul Chang
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Plans & Programs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  I recently read this great CMSAF Roll Call article "Why We serve," which made me think about my answer. Honestly, my reason has changed many times since I've joined the military in 1995.  School was never my "thing" and I didn't see the point of going in debt for college. In 1999, my wife was going through medical issues, so my answer was to re-enlist to support my family.

My reason changed again during clean-up detail for a plane crash. While searching through debris, I came across pieces of a burnt pilot suit.  Realizing the two pilots died in the crash, I felt ignorant having thought this was "just a job." It really sunk in that my brothers and sisters in arms often put their lives on the line for our freedom. 

Knowing my work directly impacted Airmen, I strived to be the best I could be. People forget we are part of a bigger picture and every job is important.

In 2004, I received a call from an Airman I previously supervised. He credited me with helping him pursue his dream of becoming an officer. Then he asked, "Why don't you become an officer?  It's something you always wanted." Although I was content after being enlisted in the Air Force for 10 years, it had always been my dream to pursue a commission. I knew it would be an uphill battle to achieve such a goal due to my age (30+), getting a waiver, finishing school, etc., but I also knew anything worth having requires hard work.

I had a choice: follow my dream risking my family's support structure or stay enlisted. My wife reminded me of what I tell my Airmen, "Don't ever regret you didn't 'go for it'!"  I wanted to teach Airmen to always pursue what they believe in and decided to take the leap of faith to become a commissioned officer. In 2007, I recited the oath, pinning on gold bars, my dream made possible by the support of my family. At that moment, my reason to serve was for those who believed in me.

I believe the key to a successful leader is to learn how to follow before you lead. Grab the attention of your Airmen, but be open to suggestions. Someone once told me "Leadership is not measured by the rank you wear, the job you hold, or by where your name is on some PowerPoint chart, but by the people around you and by their growth."

This past year, my "fire" was lit once again during some tough times resulting from a choice I made. I'm determined to prove my mistake is not going to define who I am as a leader. Moving forward, I'll let my attitude and behavior show my true character. General Patton said, "The test of success is not what you do when you're on top. Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom." 

This is why I serve. From enlisting for four years to support my family, to serving 17 years because I love what I do, whatever your reason is, serve with confidence and pride. Be 100% committed, you are part of a bigger picture and your fellow Airmen depend on you. We owe it to them to be the best!