The Air Force is currently conducting a Reduction In Force (RIF) to cut the budget. Basically, they have too many people and are trying to figure out which ones to fire. Unfortunately, the writing is on the wall that they won't be letting go of pilots like me.
I found a bit in the regulations that says I'm allowed to write a letter to the RIF board and state my case. While most people would use this as an opportunity to wax poetic about why the Air Force should retain them, I... well, I went a different direction.
If it works out, I will consider this to be easily the best thing I've ever written.
I found a bit in the regulations that says I'm allowed to write a letter to the RIF board and state my case. While most people would use this as an opportunity to wax poetic about why the Air Force should retain them, I... well, I went a different direction.
If it works out, I will consider this to be easily the best thing I've ever written.
MEMORANDUM FOR RIF BOARD L0411E/L0311E 10 Aug 2011
TO: CY11 Officer Reduction In Force Board
HQ AFPC/DPSOS
550 C Street West Ste 3
Randolph AFB TX 78150-4710
SUBJECT: CY11 Officer Reduction in Force Board - Lance Uppercutt
1. I am writing to ensure the board is aware of an issue of concern. Despite my records indicating to the contrary, my continued service would not be beneficial to the U.S. Air Force. It is said that soldiers are men most apt for all manner of services and best able to support and endure the infinite toils and continual hazards of war. I do not believe I can weather those inifinite toils any longer. It is the core of an officer, not his actions, from which his subordinates draw their direction. My actions have always been aligned with the interest of the service, but the core of my being betrays a weariness for the “dirty business” of war. When motivation erodes, the structure of leadership and discipline cannot stand. It is in the greatest interest of the Air Force that the tenets of basic order and discipline be maintained as there is deathly serious work at hand. Despite excelling throughout my career, my continued service would be detrimental to those hallowed tenets.
There is doubtless apprehension for prospects in a recalcitrant economy should a separation occur. I, however, am not concerned. I believe that intelligence and force of personality will win out in the end. If I can’t find suitable employment, then I possess neither. I hold education in the highest regard and welcome a respite from constant deployments and TDYs to further myself. I can better serve this nation by pursuing endeavors in academia and in that pursuit regain the motivation to positively influence the future of this country.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I am a volunteer. This board has the unenviable task of deciding the fate of many careers. Why cut short the service of an officer who prefers to stay in favor of keeping someone who has asked to leave? A motivated officer in the wrong career field is better by an astounding margin than an unmotivated one in the correct career field. With a handful of galvanized Air Force officers I truly believe there is no impossible task. Please let me step aside and make way for those officers with the courage, honor, and drive that can positively impact and shape the Air Force and this country for years to come.
2. As a result, I wish to convey to the board my desire to be separated from the Air Force.
3. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
//Signed//
Captain Lance Uppercutt
123AS Training Flt/CC
