AFA Responds to Unwarranted Criticism of Air Force Recruiting Efforts

CyberPatriot

Press Releases

April 3, 2008

Los Angeles Times
Letters to the Editor
202 W. 1st Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dear Editor:

I read with concern the recent statement by a Defense official criticizing the U.S. Air Force for the recruiting campaign Above All. (March 30, 2008, Are Air Force Ads Recruiting, Or Lobbying?)

This official alleges that the Air Force recruiting phrase resembles an unrelated phrase from the past, saying it “evoked the phrase ‘uber alles’ from the national anthem used by Nazi Germany.” This argument is ridiculous and offensive, and begs the question of why this official is spending energy researching catchphrases while we are in the midst of two wars.

We increasingly depend upon joint integration and partnership to achieve our military objectives. This official’s attitude runs counter to this Joint Force concept, and goes well beyond the friendly rivalry and competitiveness that is a tradition among the services.

There are 600,000+ Airmen who put their lives on the line for the country. They are doing heroic service on a daily basis side by side with the men and women of all four services. Many have volunteered to fill open positions needed by the Army and Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their commitment does not deserve to be demeaned. This Defense official would do well to take a lesson from their example of professionalism.

Sincerely,

Lt Gen Michael M. Dunn, USAF (Ret.)
President & CEO
Air Force Association

Return to AFA Press Releases

Audio Transcripts

Podcasts/Transcripts

AFA is a non-profit, independent, professional military and aerospace education association. Our mission is to promote a dominant United States Air Force and a strong national defense, and to honor Airmen and our Air Force Heritage. To accomplish this, we: EDUCATE the public on the critical need for unmatched aerospace power and a technically superior workforce to ensure U.S. national security. ADVOCATE for aerospace power and STEM education. SUPPORT the total Air Force family, and promote aerospace education.