Commanding an Air Force Squadron in the Twenty-First Century: A Practical Guide of Tips and Techniques for Today's Squadron Commander - Includes Hap Arnold's Vision

by U.S. Air Force, Jeffry F. Smith, U.S. Department of Defense

Jeffry Smith updates the earlier release of Col Timothy T. Timmon’s Commanding an Air Force Squadron (1993). In this book, which includes a foreword by Gen John P. Jumper and an introduction by Colonel Timmons, USAF, retired, Colonel Smith relies on the vast “insights, experiences, and recommendations” of former and current commanders to identify the attributes of a successful commander at multiple levels. He identifies some issues commanders face regardless of the level of command, including counseling personnel, dorm inspections, commanders’ calls, money management, and the roles of spouses and families. According to Colonel Smith, the conduct of individuals in times of crises is the truest barometer of a good commander.Contents * FOREWORD * PREFACE * INTRODUCTION * Chapter 1 * CRITICAL MONTHS * Introduction * Before Taking Over * The Art of Command * The First Three Months (When the Honeymoon's Over!) * Notes * Chapter 2 * THE MISSION * Lessons of Leadership in Action * Command Relationships * Building Unit Cohesion and Morale * Formal Inspections * Notes * Chapter 3 * PEOPLE * Welcome * Key Personnel * Counseling * Recognition Programs * Personnel Decisions * Ceremonies * Roles of Spouses and Families * Notes * Chapter 4 * COMMUNICATIVE LEADERSHIP * Commander's Call * News of the Week * Squadron Meetings * Routine Paperwork * Officer/Enlisted Performance Reports * Open Door (or Screen Door) Policies * E-mail * Notes * Chapter 5 * THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY * The Good * The Learning How to Use Your Authority * The Times of Crises * Notes * Chapter 6 * CATS AND DOGS * Honorary Squadron Commander Programs * Closing Down a Squadron * Money Management * Dorm Inspections * US Government Travel Card * Notes * Chapter 7 * YOUR EXIT STRATEGY * Finishing the Job and Leaving in Style * Change of Command Ceremony * Notes * GLOSSARY

198 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 26, 2012

Reviews

[Iskandar Muhammad · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are many books on how to be a leader or commander for Army units. Books on commandership for a modern air force are limited. Jeffry Smith's book is a must-read for those about to take command of an air force squadron. It provides practical and valuable insights consolidated from former USAF commanders. It is written in an easy to read format and can be used as a checklist to guide future COs. Whilst written in the USAF context, it still provides relevant lessons for other modern air forces.