Why I serve

  • Published
  • By Capt. Raul Chang
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Plans and Programs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  I read this great article about "Why I serve," which made me think about how I would answer. Honestly, my reason has changed many times since I 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 a medical evaluation board. So my answer was to re-enlist to support us, because getting paid to turn wrenches on jet engines was a job.

My reason changed again during clean-up crew detail for a plane crash.  While searching through debris and picking up burnt engine parts, 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 risk their lives daily for our freedom. 

It took me about five years to view the Air Force as more than just a job and to fully commit.  Knowing my work impacted people returning to their families refocused me to be the best I could be.  People forget we are part of the bigger picture and each 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 in for 10 years, it had always been my dream.  Yet, it would be an uphill battle due to my age (30+), getting a waiver, school, etc.

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 it because you didn't go for it!"  I wanted to lead Airmen to always go for what they believe in, and decided to take the leap of faith to do what I love.  In 2007, I recited the oath of office and pinned 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 being 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 measured not by the rank you wear, the job you hold, or by where your name is on some 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 learn a trade to serving because I love what I do 17 years later.  Whatever your reason is, serve with confidence and pride.  Regardless of the reason you are serving, be 100% committed because you are part of the big picture, and lives depend on your job.  We owe it to our fellow Airmen to be the best.