In-STEP
Being new in the 15th Strike Wing will give you a bird’s eye view of what a tactical unit is really all about, especially if you came from the breezy environment of a Training Unit. You might notice how hot it is in Cavite City and why Samala is the best kakanin you ever tasted.
Breaking it down further to its lower units will give you a full view of its uniqueness. One of which is the 20th Attack Squadron. The Firebird’s motto: “Maintaining Excellence as a Way of Life” is very prominent on its walls. Wonder why? The squadron was recently awarded the In-Step Award for Teamwork. They are also the PAF Tactical Squadron of the Year 2010 and numerous Best Tactical Squadron of the Quarter on its belt in most years. They never cease to aim for awardsnot because of the award’s sake but because they live up to it. So why am I writing an INStep story for Teamwork well in fact it should have been for excellence?
Such awards cannot be realized if not for its men who work together to live up to the excellence that they always practice. What I saw in the firebirds is a true example of teamwork. It is very noticeable that its personnel are tightly knit, Officers and Enlisted Personnel alike. They treat each other by rank but most importantly, they treat each other as partners in the squadron with respective talents and skills. They embrace their differences and
uniqueness as a talent and not as liability.
Realizing that Pilots cannot fly without the expertise and skills of the Crew Chief, Armaments, Engine, REI, QC who prepares the aircraft for them. They are also working hand in hand in deployment areas wherein bonds are formed and friendships are made.
Such is tested through time and life changing experiences and lessons. As what Ralph Waldo Emerson said: “Trust men and they will be true to you; Treat them greatly and they will show themselves great.” Through the profound leadership of its Squadron Commanders, the firebirds continue to grow as skilled airmen and friends in the workplace and in real life. Such is evident when enlisted Men are openly expressing their ideas to further improve systems in the workplace, air their personal problems and contribute for the improvement of the squadron. Those explain why the 20th Attack Squadron truly thrives and maintain Excellence as a way of Life.
