Roger that: what the Air Force life means to me

  • Published
  • By Maj. Belinda Petersen
  • Air Force Services Agency Public Affairs
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  When Chief Master Sgt. Malcolm McVicar answered the question, "What does the Air Force life mean to me," on www.MyAirForceLife.com, he answered, "The Air Force family is the family that grows each day as you meet new Airmen. Like a traditional family, they are always there when you need them the most."

In celebration of the Year of the Air Force Family, Air Force Services Agency officials created this site to help Airmen stay connected, informed and engaged in the many programs offered by Force Support Squadrons.

This interactive Web site also offers a number of opportunities to participate, including "Roger That," where Airmen, families, and friends can provide an inspirational quote and share their thoughts about what Air Force life means to them.

In Chief McVicar's case, the lines between Air Force family and biological family cross, starting with his father who was a Chief Master Sgt. and served more than 28 years in the Air Force. Out of respect for his father, he also joined the Air Force in 1982. He told his wife they would take a pay cut and she wasn't happy about it at the time.

However, three years later, they decided that the Air Force life was for them and he re-enlisted. Now, more than 27 years later, Chief McVicar still takes pride in putting on the uniform and the camaraderie that comes with being a part of a big family.

Today, Chief McVicar is the Commandant of the Paul W. Airey Noncommissioned Officer Academy at Tyndall Air Force Base. But, he spent most of his career as a C-130 crew chief and has deployed to almost every part of the globe. "As my wife was fond of pointing out, I traveled the world and she raised the kids," said Chief McVicar. In his years of experience and travels, the thing he likes most is that the Air Force takes ordinary citizens who have volunteered to do extraordinary things.

As far back as Chief McVicar can remember, family was a big deal. Growing up, his mom and dad always made time for the kids and helped them no matter what. Since joining the Air Force, Chief McVicar has experienced the same thing with his Air Force family. "I lost both my parents and most recently my wife. When my wife passed away this last July, the Air Force stepped into action providing comfort, answers, help, and so much more. The family ties we build with complete strangers in the Air Force are something no fortune 500 company could ever gain. We, as an Air Force family are unique and although our biological family means everything to us, the Air Force family is ready to step in when needed," said Chief McVicar.

When giving advice to his son, Chief McVicar said the Air Force will give you the education, discipline, responsibility and leadership skills to tackle anything. "Don't look at the Air Force as a job with steady money. Instead, look at what you can experience over the next four years of your life," said Chief McVicar. His son now carries on the family tradition as an Airman.

To view hundreds more of "Roger That" inspirational quotes and to submit your own quotes, go to http://www.MyAirForceLife.com. Visit the site to find out more about future competitions including short story, video, original song, and photo contest.