Former CSAF offers keys to success for graduating ENJJPT class

  • Published
  • By George Woodward
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The latest class of Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program pilots earned their wings and got a few lessons in leadership from a former Air Force Chief of Staff at their graduation Dec. 16. 

Retired Gen. John P. Jumper counseled the young officers to always be worthy to lead America's Airmen and gave them three keys to success. 

The general reflected on a number of Airmen he had encountered during his career, including Airman 1st Class Jason Cunningham, a pararescue specialist who posthumously earned the Air Force cross for saving the lives of 10 wounded Army Rangers in Afghanistan. 

"When Airman Cunningham knew he wasn't going to make it back," General Jumper said, "he spent the last moments of his life explaining what to do for the wounded soldiers to keep them alive. 

"This is the kind of Airman you're going to be asked to lead. You have to ask yourselves, 'Are you worthy?' Never forget your responsibility as a role model." 

The general then offered the new graduates his secrets to success as an officer. His first key: "Focus on the job you're in right now." 

Some officers spend their time and effort trying to plan every aspect of their career when they'd be better off concentrating on their current job, the general said. 

"Do the job you're doing right now better than anyone else," he said, "and you'll be shocked how 'lucky' you are." 

The second key General Jumper offered was to "be an officer first." 

"Any wing commander will tell you--the first time you walk past a piece of trash on the ground and don't pick it up, you've set a new, lower standard," General Jumper said.
"Remember who you are. Remember the uniform you wear and your responsibility as a role model." 

The final key the general gave to the graduates was to take care of their families. 

"You have no idea what our spouses go through to allow us to do what we do," General Jumper said. "Think about the burden you've asked your family to carry." 

General Jumper also took the opportunity to pin wings on his future son-in-law, ENJJPT graduate 2nd Lt. Tim Newschwander. He reminded the new pilots to enjoy their time in service. 

"The thing you will look back on--whether you spend four years in or 40--is the time you will spend in uniform. It's what you will talk about for the rest of your lives."