Don’t rush new motto - Air Force Community - Air Force Times

Don’t rush new motto

The Air Force is looking for a motto that will stand the test of time.

It’s a noble goal — albeit a lofty one — to sum up in a few words all that the service and its airmen stand for.

It can be done. “The Few, The Proud, The Marines” in its more than 30 years of existence has successfully branded the Corps in the consciousness of the American public as a desirable and exclusive institution of patriotic service.

The challenge the Air Force faces is defining itself. For years, the service has looked as if it is struggling with its identity. As the youngest military branch, that is understandable. Never in its 63-year history has the service been called upon to be so many things. Not only are airmen flying bombers, fighters, refueling tankers, search helicopters and remotely piloted aircraft, they are fighting side by side with soldiers and Marines, building roads and bridges in the war zones and giving aid and comfort to earthquake survivors. They are training the air forces of Afghanistan and Iraq as well as ones across Africa.

It’s understandable if the Air Force is hard-pressed to find a short, enduring phrase that captures all that, defines the spirit of those wearing the uniform and compels young civilians to visit their local recruiters.

Clearly, “Above all” and “Aim high” fell flat.

Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz’s toughest job will be finding those few words that epitomize the Air Force. Perhaps he will be inspired by the Army’s quest for a motto that strikes the right chord. Until about four years ago, the service was saddled with the inexplicable “An Army of One.” No two soldiers could agree on what that meant. Then came the switch to “Army Strong.” That has staying power. That is what the Air Force needs in a motto and the brass should take the time to get it right.