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Almost there - Final thoughts for the ORI

  • Published
  • By Col. Steven Chapman
  • 315th Airlift Wing Commander
Joint Base Charleston, S.C. --  In my last article, I used the analogy describing our ORI preparation as using a crawl, walk and run methodology. Well, it's time to start running. We have worked hard accomplishing multiple local exercises and two 121 AEW fly aways. We have the right people with the right equipment and most importantly the right attitude in the right positions to be successful. Now we must execute and implement what we've trained for.

As we continue to prepare, here are some reminders:
  • Reread and understand the Lims and Sims and the SPINS.
  • Pack cell phones in your checked bag.
  • Know the Inspection Criteria for your functional area. It's what the IG uses to grade you.
  • Know and love your Airmen's Manual. Review it often and tab the most important, most often used sections. During slow times either at home station or at our deployed location, pull out your Airmen's Manual and review or quiz your friends.
  • This is a no brainer--DO EVERYTHING SAFELY and practice sound ORM!
  • Know your work/rest cycle. This is a critical safety issue which is taken very seriously by your leadership and the IG.
  • Be responsive! Everything must be done with a sense of urgency. This means accomplishing an order or tasking quickly, effectively and correctly the first time within any time constraints that you may be under.
  • Be on time!
  • Fight the war, not the IG. You know your job and ORI related responsibilities. DO IT! Don't worry about the IG and the impact they may or may not have on the environment you're working in.
  • Develop a wingman approach for everything you do. Always travel with your Wingman.
  • The ORI is NOT over until it is over. Remember, the IG will be watching until you are released from duty at Charleston, so be professional and follow the IG ground rules.
  • As Winston Churchill stated "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference." Great attitude = success!!

I want to thank everyone for what you have accomplished as a team and for what each of you will accomplish during the ORI. I already know you can get the job done in austere locations under extremely challenging conditions. Now, let's show the IG what we are capable of.

I understand it has been extremely demanding during the last several months due to fiscal concerns, family, civilian job commitments, and normal military requirements. You have worked hard, and it is time to put those external factors out of your mind and concentrate on the mission. You know what you are doing and now it is time to prove it!

This is the final sprint to the finish line--finish strong!

The road to our success is ONE TEAM, NO SEAM!