Operation Air Force PDT 2009
From 23 June 2009 to 9 July 2009, I participated in the Operation Air Force PDT at Goodfellow AFB near San Angelo, TX. I was assigned to shadow a couple 1st Lieutenants from the medical wing and contracting, as well as the CMSgt at the base HQ. This PDT provided me the opportunity to see and learn about contracting, occupations in clinics and hospitals on bases, and the duties of officers and enlisted personnel who work in the base Headquarters. I was also given the chance to view a SSgt/TSgt promotion ceremony, spend time with the base’s canine unit, welcome Airmen arriving from basic training, ride in a C-130 from Dyess AFB, and be a part of a small teleconference with Major General Anthony F. Przybyslawski, Vice Commander of the AETC MAJCOM (Air Education and Training Command, the Major Command which Air Force ROTC falls under). Each of these experiences was extremely exciting, but I must say that the teleconference was overwhelmingly amazing. The only people in attendance were 5 members of the Key Staff and me!
Cadet Wolfe and the rest of her PDT group.
This PDT has provided me with much motivation to become and Air Force Officer. After completing this training, there is no doubt in my mind that this is what I want to do with my life. From observing people around me, I learned several very valuable lessons. I was able to see how officers interact with enlisted personnel and civilian workers: giving respect subsequently gaining respect. Secondly, I learned much about life on base and how a base operates. Through observation and advice I was offered, I discovered that although mistakes are not encouraged, it is understood that everyone makes them. They are used as one of the greatest learning techniques. The biggest lesson learned was that you should never miss an opportunity to thank someone. It is not hard to do, and so many people are deserving of it.
I strongly encourage any cadet to seek the opportunity to participate in PDT. I had a great time, met some amazing people, learned valuable lessons, and made some incredible memories.
More information on PDTs can be found at http://www.afrotc.com/college-life/summer-programs/
Cadet 3rd Class Bailey A. Wolfe
