460th SW Commander offers thanks, inspection key points Published May 4, 2012 By Col. Daniel Dant 460th Space Wing BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Team Buckley, as we approach our inspection this month, I want to thank you for the time and effort that you have put into our inspection preparation. I would also like to personally thank the loved ones that help us do what we do each day. Without your support we would be unable to complete the mission. In addition, as I'm sure you have come to realize, some of our operations will be minimally manned to a severe degree as we prepare and conduct our inspection so we apologize for any inconvenience that you may encounter. I sincerely appreciate your patience. Now, as "D" Day approaches and we ramp up into "INSPECTORCON Delta," I feel confident that we are prepared for whatever the IG throws our way. Today as I write this article, I feel so much pride for the hard work and dedication from Team Buckley and can't wait to show the Inspectors, Air Force Space Command, and the Air Force why we are the best Space Wing in the Air Force. However I would like to provide a few other key points about the inspection: Be positive. You must appreciate the significance of this inspection. The ability to convey a confident, positive attitude becomes a direct reflection of individual professionalism. Inspectors perceive commitment to mission when observing individuals in the Space Wing--they draw obvious conclusions when they see negative, apathetic, or lackadaisical attitudes. A sense of urgency is imperative! Correct it on the spot. If the IG identifies a small problem, fix it on the spot if you can. Show an inspector you're both receptive and responsive; these little problems may be dismissed. Use your checklist. If you got 'em, use 'em. Lack of knowledge is understandable. Lack of discipline, like failure to use required checklists, is unforgivable. Discipline problems are killers any time and neither the IG nor I have much sympathy for a lack of discipline. Ask questions. Understand the task...throughout the inspection, you may be tasked by members of the inspection team to demonstrate your proficiency or knowledge in your job. If you don't understand what an inspector wants you to do or precisely what the question is, ask the inspector to restate or clarify. Once a rating is given, the "I didn't understand" argument won't fly. Ask questions up front, before you do the task or answer the questions. Don't talk around a fault. Be honest. If you didn't know or overlooked something, say so. Maximum demonstration. Avoid task simulation unless told to do so by the inspector. Demonstrate tasks during the ORI just as you would do them day-to-day. Simulation causes added confusion and detracts from our performance for the IG. We want our inspection performance to mirror our day-to-day operations as closely as possible. Provide a sense of urgency. HUSTLE - If the situation demands a display of urgency; convey that urgency to the inspector. Lack of hustle conveys lack of intensity and damages the portrayal of readiness capability. Don't argue. Arguing is a big "NO-NO" during an IG inspection. Elevate concerns. If higher headquarters' (Air Force or AFSPC) policy or guidance is unclear, the group commanders or I will resolve the issue with the IG and the AFSPC staff; you will never argumentatively confront an inspector. Look Sharp. Personal appearance and custom and courtesies are important. The IG looks at how we present ourselves. Presentation is a direct reflection of professionalism and commitment to excellence. Poor marks here can negate a good showing in all other areas. A good haircut, a sharp uniform and a crisp salute say a great deal to an inspector. Let's look sharp and be sharp! Focus. Concentrate during the entire inspection period. It will get tiring, but we have to stay alert the entire time. Our goal is to stay fully engaged from the moment the inspectors arrive on the base until they leave. And it has to be 100 percent safe! Lastly, I'd like to take a moment to welcome the inspectors to Buckley. I hope you enjoy your stay with us while you are here. I feel confident that my team will satisfy your expectations while you are staying with us. We are ready for you and I hope you are ready for US!