Gen. Jumper speaks to graduating pilots

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Melanie Holochwost
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  A former chief of staff of the Air Force was the guest speaker for the 309th Fighter Squadron graduation in Hangar 485 on Luke Air Force Base Oct. 8.

Retired Gen. John Jumper reminded graduates of heroic Airmen. One of the stories was about Senior Airman Jason Cunningham.

"Jason Cunningham was a pararescueman whose helicopter was taken down by enemy fire in Afghanistan," General Jumper said. "He was mortally wounded while pulling injured Airmen out of danger. Even though he knew he wasn't going to survive, he continued to give medical instructions to others, so they could live."

On Sept. 13, 2002, General Jumper presented the Air Force Cross to Airman Cunningham's wife and parents for saving 10 lives and making it possible for seven others who were killed to come home.

General Jumper also gave the graduates some advice about commitment, work ethic and leadership.

"You have made a commitment larger than yourself," he said to the graduates. "It's the most important commitment you have made in your life. And, it's your job to maintain the courage and professionalism to keep that commitment. The people on the ground have entrusted you to know your job, so you can do your part to win the war."

General Jumper advised the group to work as hard as they can at their current job.

"If I were to guess my next job at any point in my career, I would have gotten it wrong every time," he said. "So, focus on what you are doing now and do it to the best of your abilities."

As for leadership, the most important part is face-to-face communication, General Jumper said.

"There is no such thing as leadership through e-mail, texting or tweeting," he said. "My father always told me that 90 percent of leadership is just being there in person for your people."