Company Grade Officers' Council plans ahead Published Nov. 3, 2008 By Capt. Adrianne Michele 460th Space Wing Public Affairs BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- More than a dozen lieutenants and captains met at Newtch's Den Oct. 30 to build teamwork and professional development within the junior officer ranks across Team Buckley. Active duty, Guard and reserve officers met for the Company Grade Officers' Council to plan future teambuilding and fundraising events, and hear the 460th Space Wing's Director of Staff share his thoughts about leadership. Guest Speaker Mr. Doug Carroll, a retired Air Force colonel, was enthusiastic about talking to the CGOs because, he said, "You want to make sure that someone is taking care of your Air Force when you leave." The CGOC is important for junior officers, he said, because "it provides leadership opportunities outside of their AFSC, and it's an opportunity for leaders to mentor." Carroll was pleased to be part of the group, and advocated their involvement in activities outside the base to broaden their perspectives. "That's the difference between knowledge and wisdom," he said. "What you learn from volunteer opportunities are skills you can use later." A relatively new member to a junior officers' council, 2nd Lt. Adam Spring has jumped right in as the vice president and hopes to see the camaraderie within the group grow. "Whether its Crud tournaments, ski trips, or just getting together at the closest thing we have to an (Officer's Club), it would be awesome if we could make it a fun venue where we could get to know each other," he said. Veteran CGOs, many full of ideas for future projects, also came seeking ties with their fellow officers. "I gain greatly from getting to know my fellow CGOs, learning what they do, and building relationships that allow us to help each other in our daily work," said Capt. Kevin James, who has been part of CGOCs on four different bases. Capt. James also said he looks forward to professional development opportunities and insights from senior leaders like Mr. Carroll, whose interactive presentation included historical and practical examples of leading change. "I try to give you stuff that you can take back to your workspace and use," Mr. Carroll said.