KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Daniel McGuire took over as command chief of the 18th Wing in June 2014, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Below is a Q-and-A providing his thoughts on his new profession and new home.
What do you hope to bring to the 18th Wing during your time as command chief?
The number one thing that I want to bring to the wing is to ensure that every Airman, regardless of their job, sees how they fit into the combat mission and carries with them a warrior ethos.
What do you expect of the Airmen under your command?
I expect professionalism, integrity and service. I expect them not to look the other way. I expect them to lead at the lowest levels; I'm a huge advocate of small unit leadership, because I think that's where we get the most work done. I expect them not to pass the buck upwards but to take care of their problems at each of their levels.
How do you feel about Kadena AB and living in Okinawa?
I am extremely excited about living in an area of such political importance as Kadena is, in retrospect to both how we are ambassadors to our host nation here and the defense of the homeland. Being at the tip of the spear is exciting and understanding the mission should not be confusing here.
Who inspires you and why?
I have many mentors that inspire me. My family inspires me to do the things that I do each and every day; it starts with them because at the end of the day that's who's there. Every day I leave and come back home and when I leave, I leave inspired by them and I come home proud to tell them about my day. Second, the next generation Airmen inspire me, I always see them out around doing the right thing and working hard. They could just choose to stop showing up and then where would we be, but they don't and they inspire me to keep going and stay motivated.