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CSAF provides 'initial feedback' to all commanders

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Torri Ingalsbe
  • Air Force Public Affairs Agency
WASHINGTON (AFNS) --  All supervisors are required to provide subordinates with an initial feedback, outlining expectations, standards and goals they can both work together to achieve.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III led the way by introducing the new Air Force Instruction 1-2 "Commander's Responsibilities" May 8 for commanders Air Force-wide.

AFI 1-2 is a six-page document that details the general's priorities and expectations for those officers who hold command positions. Topics range from conduct and responsibilities to Welsh's overall intent.

"It's important for all of us to be on the same page, especially when it comes to standards and conduct," Welsh said. "Our single most important job as commanders is to take care of the sons and daughters our nation has entrusted to us. This outlines how to accomplish that, while keeping consistency across all commands."

In addition to AFI 1-2, the Air Force inspection system has been in development for the last three years, the Secretary of the Air Force Office of Inspector General Chief of Policy Integration Maj. Justin Longmire explained. One of the biggest focuses was on what really mattered to commanders.

"For the first time, the Air Force now has an instruction which sets the minimum standard for successful command," said Lt. Gen. Stephen Mueller, the inspector general of the Air Force. "A great byproduct of this instruction is a standardized template for evaluating and inspecting all Air Force commander's along four common major graded areas."

The AFI shows the specific expectations Welsh has for his commanders, especially in the realm of commander conduct.

According to the AFI, "commanders are required to display exemplary conduct as outlined in U.S. law." In addition, "commanders must be above reproach, both morally and ethically, and exemplify Air Force Core Values and standards in their professional and personal lives."

The AFI also delves into the responsibilities of commanders, from training and equipping Airmen, to resource management. Commanders are expected to execute the mission, lead people, manage resources and improve the unit, according to the AFI.

"AFI 1-2 provides 'commander's intent,' and outlines the expectations for commanders," Longmire said. "The Air Force Inspection System provides a congruent means of inspecting to those standards.

AFI 1-2 can be found at http://www.af.mil/Portals/1/documents/csaf/afi1_2.pdf.