Exemplifying excellence Published Oct. 5, 2008 By Master Sgt. Alan Aspera 624th Civil Engineer Squadron HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- As Airmen, we have heard the saying "Excellence in all we do" since the day we were greeted so pleasantly by our training instructors. We have followed and embraced this important aspect in our military careers. However, it is imperative we take this very principle to heart and make it a way of life. Whether it is applied to your family, civilian career, or faith, it not only brings out the best in us, but greatly influences those around you to do the same. Nobody expects us to be perfect, but any imperfection must not be the result of our lack of effort. I remember a co-worker whose son was a junior varsity football player as a sophomore. A year earlier, he broke his arm during a game and had to go through weeks of rehabilitation before he was able to play football again. He could have easily given up on football, but he hung in there and came back even stronger. He was summoned to play quarterback as a sophomore for the varsity football team because all the varsity starting quarterbacks were injured. Having a positive and can-do attitude, he embraced the challenge. He did not let the thought of moving from JV to Varsity intimidate him. He did not know what to expect but he promised his team and family he would do his best in all he did despite the pressure. What people wouldn't know is this young sophomore quarterback would lead the Leilehua High School football team with wins throughout the playoffs and eventually a victory in the 2007 Hawaii State Football Championship game. This is one of many examples that exemplifies to me the meaning of "Excellence in all we do". One thing is for sure, the Airmen of the 624th Regional Support Group have set the standard with the term "Excellence in all we do." It is evident by the outstanding feedback we obtain from our active duty counterparts while our members are deployed or TDY including Pacific Lifeline, our deployments in the Middle East, and just recently an annual tour in Montana. It's no surprise why the active-duty Air Force requests so many of our Airmen to do an MPA tour with them. It's the invaluable experience, work ethic and positive attitude, which are a few examples of the many remarkable qualities we bring to the table. To all the members of the 624th Regional Support Group, let's continue to exemplify the true meaning of "Excellence in all we do." Great job!