Everyone can make correct choices

  • Published
  • By Maj. Avis Resch
  • KMC Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Coordinator
As for my passion, I hope it doesn't offend. try to keep my zealousness in check but I truly want our Culture of Responsible Choices program to make a difference in our Air Force. Is it a personal adventure? It is because I've been the Airmen. I've been the one folks have tried to take out and get drunk. I've lived in the shoes of those we're trying to protect. I'm now on the other side listening to the stories and witnessing the heartache.

So what does this mean? What can we do as an Air Force to promote a Culture of Responsible Choices? To begin with, first-line supervisors should get involved and set the example. These few actions alone can make a huge difference in the attitude of their section and Airmen. Think about it, zero tolerance for unacceptable behavior well articulated by a boss can carry the same weight as if it was said by a mother, a father or another respected person in someone's life. I understood right from wrong and did what I was told because I didn't want to disappoint my leadership.

With that said, I've been around the Air Force block for almost 23 years (enlisted and officer time) and have never had as much as a letter of counseling. If I can figure out how to stay out of trouble and do the right thing, so can others. What's the secret? My boss got involved, set the example and articulated right from wrong as well as the consequences. He showed me there were other choices to be made besides the wrong ones. I guess if I really took a moment to look back at my first supervisor, I'd have him to thank for how my Air Force life began and the choices I've made along the way. Sergeant Dean Davenport...I thank you from the bottom of my heart!

For more information on the Culture of Responsible Choices talk to your supervisor, first sergeant or commander. Better yet, talk to your peers who are already making the right choices and hang out with them for a while. You never know, you may also go 23 years without an LOC of your own.