An educated warrior reinforces core values Published Feb. 23, 2009 By Col. John C. Flournoy Jr. 932 Airlift Wing Scott AFB, IL -- "Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other. --John F. Kennedy" Our Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. Norton Schwartz, recently said "In our professional development, we must remain mindful of the lessons of the past, while we continue to prevail everywhere our enemies choose to engage." He added that "continued education is a crucial part of being a professional warrior reinforcing our core values of integrity, service and excellence." As dedicated professionals serving our Air Force in a civilian or military capacity, regardless of grade, rank, job title or job description, we have a responsibility to ensure that we strive to stay at the top of our game by taking advantage of the multiple avenues of continuing education that are available to us. The success of our Air Force is directly tied to the high standards that our leaders have required of Airmen that proudly join our team every day. In today's ever-changing and increasingly complex world, we all have an obligation to expand our minds to ensure that we stay one step ahead of those who are out to harm us. Whether through Professional Military Education offered through the Air University or through an accredited university, there are educational opportunities to fit your needs. This August members of the Armed Forces will be eligible for what is perhaps the most generous educational assistance package ever offered to current and former military members. The Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 was recently passed and will provide military members with tremendous opportunities to achieve higher learning. I hope that you'll take advantage of what our Congress is providing. My challenge to you is to prepare yourselves and those under your leadership for the challenges that lie ahead through continuing education. We must continue to build a team of leaders by providing them every opportunity to be successful. Whether formally through academic institutions, or by taking the time to read the 2009 CSAF Reading List, your efforts to learn will better prepare you to lead from the tip of the spear. Your Air Force is counting on you!