This pocket-sized handbook, formally titled The Airman’s Handbook, serves as a foundational information for enlisted members of the US Air Power. It outlines core values, anticipated conduct, and primary army data needed for achievement inside the service. It historically gives steerage on subjects starting from army customs and courtesies to decorate and look requirements.
Its significance lies in its function as a readily accessible reference for airmen navigating the complexities of army life. It fosters a way of shared id and promotes adherence to established protocols, finally contributing to unit cohesion and operational effectiveness. Traditionally, these manuals have advanced to replicate altering army priorities and societal norms, guaranteeing they continue to be related to the modern airman.
Subsequent sections will delve into particular features lined inside this important useful resource, together with its influence on management improvement, skilled conduct, and general mission readiness. The handbooks affect on shaping airmen and fostering a tradition of excellence inside the Air Power will probably be examined.
1. Core Values
The Airman’s Handbook, colloquially known as the “little blue e book air power,” prominently options the Air Power’s Core Values: Integrity First, Service Earlier than Self, and Excellence In All We Do. These values will not be merely aspirational statements; they’re offered as elementary ideas supposed to information the conduct and decision-making of each airman. The handbook emphasizes that adherence to those values is paramount, forming the bedrock upon which belief, self-discipline, and operational effectiveness are constructed. For instance, the “Integrity First” worth underscores the significance of honesty and ethical braveness, immediately impacting how airmen strategy difficult conditions and make moral decisions underneath strain. The “Service Earlier than Self” worth highlights the dedication to prioritizing the mission and the welfare of fellow airmen, fostering a tradition of teamwork and selflessness. “Excellence In All We Do” promotes a dedication to steady enchancment and a relentless pursuit of the best requirements in each activity, no matter its obvious significance.
The handbook illustrates sensible functions of those values by means of hypothetical eventualities and real-world examples. It outlines how airmen can embody these ideas of their each day interactions, their strategy to their duties, and their dedication to upholding the Air Power’s requirements of conduct. Take into account a scenario the place an airman discovers a discrepancy in stock information. Making use of “Integrity First” would compel them to report the discrepancy, even when it probably displays poorly on their very own efficiency. Equally, when confronted with a demanding mission, embodying “Service Earlier than Self” would encourage an airman to persevere regardless of private discomfort or fatigue. Demonstrating “Excellence In All We Do” entails not solely finishing duties effectively but in addition actively searching for methods to enhance processes and improve efficiency.
The constant reinforcement of the Core Values inside the “little blue e book air power” is essential for shaping the character {and professional} id of airmen. Whereas possessing technical expertise is crucial, the handbook underscores that it’s the unwavering dedication to those values that really defines an airman’s service. Challenges come up when airmen encounter conditions the place these values seem to battle or when exterior pressures compromise their adherence. Nonetheless, the handbook equips airmen with a framework for navigating such dilemmas, emphasizing that unwavering adherence to the Core Values is paramount for sustaining the belief and respect of colleagues, superiors, and the general public. Due to this fact, the handbook gives important basis of information, habits and values.
2. Professionalism Information
The “little blue e book air power” features as a foundational “Professionalism Information” for enlisted personnel. This information establishes clear expectations for conduct, costume, and interpersonal interactions, shaping particular person habits and contributing to a cohesive, disciplined power. The handbook delineates requirements for communication, each written and verbal, emphasizing readability, respect, and adherence to army protocols. It addresses subjects resembling correct decorum, respectful remedy of superiors and subordinates, and avoidance of unprofessional relationships. By codifying these ideas, the handbook goals to mitigate ambiguity and foster a piece atmosphere characterised by mutual respect and professionalism. This proactive strategy to habits ensures a constant and predictable work place that helps the mission of the Air Power.
For instance, the “Professionalism Information” specifies expectations for digital communication, discouraging the usage of casual language and unprofessional content material in official correspondence. It additionally gives steerage on navigating social media, reminding airmen of their duty to uphold the Air Power’s repute each on and off responsibility. Actual-world functions prolong to on a regular basis interactions, resembling addressing superiors by their correct rank and title, sustaining a clear and arranged workspace, and adhering to the Air Power’s costume and look requirements. These seemingly minor particulars collectively contribute to a tradition of professionalism and self-discipline. The guides clear pointers on dealing with delicate info and sustaining confidentiality safeguard operational safety and shield the pursuits of the Air Power.
In abstract, the “little blue e book air power’s” “Professionalism Information” performs a vital function in shaping the habits and character of enlisted personnel. Its emphasis on clear communication, respectful interactions, and adherence to army protocols fosters a tradition of professionalism that’s important for mission success. Challenges might come up when airmen encounter conditions not explicitly lined by the handbook; nevertheless, the underlying ideas of respect, integrity, and repair present a framework for navigating such dilemmas and making sound moral choices. This constant reinforcement {of professional} requirements contributes to the general effectiveness and repute of the Air Power, producing airmen who can confidently symbolize the service each on and off responsibility.
3. Moral Conduct
The Airman’s Handbook, a “little blue e book air power,” serves as a cornerstone for cultivating moral conduct amongst enlisted members. It gives a framework of ideas and pointers designed to form ethical decision-making in various conditions. The institution and enforcement of moral requirements immediately influences the Air Power’s operational effectiveness and public belief. Compromised moral habits can result in safety breaches, broken reputations, and a lack of confidence inside the ranks, affecting mission readiness and general morale. This handbook emphasizes that moral conduct isn’t merely an summary idea, however a sensible necessity built-in into each day operations.
The handbook highlights real-world moral dilemmas confronted by airmen, providing steerage on navigating complicated conditions involving conflicts of curiosity, misuse of assets, and breaches of confidentiality. For example, think about an airman who witnesses a colleague participating in fraudulent exercise. The “little blue e book air power” emphasizes the duty to report such misconduct, even when it entails potential private repercussions. The handbook underscores the significance of sustaining integrity and upholding the Air Power’s values above private acquire. Furthermore, it reinforces the idea of accountability, emphasizing that airmen are chargeable for their actions and choices, each on and off responsibility. Common studying and utility of its contents promote vital pondering and ethical reasoning, serving to to make sure that airmen are ready to make sound moral judgments in difficult environments.
In conclusion, the Airman’s Handbook performs a vital function in fostering a tradition of moral conduct inside the Air Power. The constant reinforcement of moral ideas, mixed with real-world examples, equips airmen with the data and instruments essential to navigate complicated moral dilemmas and uphold the best requirements of integrity. Whereas challenges inevitably come up in decoding and making use of these pointers, the handbook’s constant message reinforces the significance of moral conduct as a cornerstone of the Air Power’s mission and repute. Its sensible implementation enhances mission readiness and maintains the general public belief.
4. Uniform Requirements
The “little blue e book air power”, or Airman’s Handbook, dedicates a considerable portion to outlining and imposing uniform requirements. These laws prolong past mere aesthetics; they serve to instill self-discipline, promote unit cohesion, and venture knowledgeable picture reflecting the Air Power’s values and capabilities.
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Look and Presentation
This aspect particulars particular necessities for grooming, together with hair requirements, facial hair laws, and the correct put on of equipment. Deviation from these requirements is mostly prohibited, as consistency in look reinforces a way of unity and self-discipline. The handbook clarifies nuances associated to completely different responsibility places and operational necessities, guaranteeing that airmen perceive the rationale behind particular laws. Uniform and grooming requirements, detailed within the “little blue e book air power”, are strictly enforced and will not be arbitrary.
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Correct Put on of Uniforms
The Airman’s Handbook gives complete steerage on the licensed uniforms for numerous events and responsibility assignments. It specifies the right configuration of every uniform, together with the position of insignia, badges, and decorations. Adherence to those laws demonstrates consideration to element and respect for army traditions. The information outlines particular guidelines concerning the damage of civilian clothes on army installations and through off-duty hours, emphasizing the significance of sustaining knowledgeable look even when not in uniform. Airmen should know these particulars from the handbook.
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Upkeep and Care
Preserving the serviceability and look of uniforms is a key ingredient of the outlined requirements. The Airman’s Handbook gives directions on correct cleansing, urgent, and storage strategies. Emphasis is positioned on sustaining a neat {and professional} look, reflecting delight in a single’s service and respect for the uniform. Broken or worn uniforms have to be repaired or changed promptly, guaranteeing that airmen at all times current a pointy {and professional} picture. Upkeep is predicted for all to conform.
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Enforcement and Accountability
Enforcement of uniform requirements is a shared duty, with supervisors and commanders enjoying a vital function in guaranteeing compliance. Violations of those requirements can lead to disciplinary motion, starting from verbal counseling to extra extreme penalties. The “little blue e book air power” emphasizes the significance of self-discipline and private accountability in sustaining uniform requirements. By persistently upholding these laws, airmen contribute to a tradition of professionalism and self-discipline inside the Air Power. Right motion is predicted as defined within the handbook.
The thorough remedy of uniform requirements inside the Airman’s Handbook underscores their significance in shaping the id and conduct of Air Power personnel. Adherence to those laws not solely promotes knowledgeable picture but in addition reinforces core values resembling self-discipline, consideration to element, and respect for custom.
5. Army Customs
The Airman’s Handbook, sometimes called the “little blue e book air power,” dedicates a good portion to outlining and explaining army customs and courtesies. These traditions and protocols type the spine of army tradition, fostering respect, self-discipline, and a way of shared id inside the Air Power. The handbook serves as a readily accessible reference for understanding and adhering to those customs, guaranteeing that each one airmen, no matter rank or expertise, are well-versed within the correct types of conduct.
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Saluting Protocol
The act of saluting is a elementary army customized signifying respect and deference to superiors. The “little blue e book air power” gives detailed directions on the correct execution of a salute, together with hand positioning, posture, and eye contact. It clarifies when and the place salutes are required, resembling when encountering commissioned officers, rendering honors to the flag, or collaborating in official ceremonies. Understanding and adhering to saluting protocol is crucial for sustaining army self-discipline and demonstrating respect for authority. Salutes should at all times be delivered well, and returned with equal respect.
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Addressing Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers
The Airman’s Handbook outlines the right types of tackle for officers and senior non-commissioned officers, emphasizing the significance of utilizing correct rank and titles. It specifies when it’s acceptable to handle an officer or senior NCO by their rank and final identify, versus utilizing “Sir” or “Ma’am.” This protocol ensures readability in communication and reinforces the hierarchical construction of the Air Power. Appropriately addressing superiors isn’t merely a matter of etiquette; it’s a demonstration of respect for his or her place and authority. Airmen should study and apply these requirements.
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Customs Relating to the Nationwide Anthem and Flag
The “little blue e book air power” emphasizes the significance of demonstrating respect for the nationwide anthem and the flag. It outlines the correct procedures for standing at consideration, rendering a salute, and eradicating headgear in the course of the enjoying of the anthem or the elevating or decreasing of the flag. These customs are deeply rooted in army custom and function a reminder of the values and sacrifices that underpin the nation’s protection. Adherence to those customs demonstrates patriotism and a dedication to the beliefs that the flag represents. All members are required to observe directions in handbook.
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Eating Etiquette and Mess Corridor Procedures
The Airman’s Handbook gives steerage on correct etiquette within the eating facility, or mess corridor. It outlines expectations for conduct, together with acceptable desk manners, noise ranges, and interplay with meals service personnel. The handbook emphasizes the significance of sustaining a clear and orderly atmosphere and exhibiting respect for the traditions and customs related to army eating. Adherence to those procedures promotes a way of camaraderie and reinforces the significance of self-discipline even in casual settings. Strict pointers have to be adopted as dictated in handbook.
By meticulously detailing these and different army customs, the “little blue e book air power” ensures that each one airmen are geared up with the data and understanding essential to navigate the complexities of army life with respect and professionalism. These customs will not be merely arbitrary guidelines; they’re time-honored traditions that contribute to the cohesion, self-discipline, and esprit de corps of the Air Power.
6. Management Rules
The Airman’s Handbook, typically referenced because the “little blue e book air power,” introduces foundational management ideas relevant to airmen in any respect ranges. It establishes a framework for understanding management duties, fostering a tradition of accountability, and selling efficient group dynamics. Its contents promote progress for junior enlisted members and seasoned senior officers.
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Main by Instance
The Airman’s Handbook emphasizes the significance of setting a optimistic instance for subordinates. Airmen are anticipated to embody the Air Power’s core values Integrity First, Service Earlier than Self, and Excellence In All We Do of their each day conduct and interactions. This precept extends to adherence to laws, upkeep {of professional} requirements, and dedication to mission accomplishment. Main by instance isn’t merely a matter of following the principles; it requires actively demonstrating the specified behaviors and attitudes to encourage confidence and encourage others. The handbook reinforces the concept that actions communicate louder than phrases, and that efficient management begins with private accountability and a constant demonstration of integrity. Junior members observe senior members for steerage.
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Communication and Transparency
Efficient communication is highlighted as a vital element of management. The “little blue e book air power” emphasizes the necessity for clear, concise, and well timed communication with subordinates, friends, and superiors. Leaders are anticipated to maintain their groups knowledgeable about related info, present constructive suggestions, and actively hearken to considerations. Transparency, honesty, and a willingness to have interaction in open dialogue construct belief and foster a optimistic work atmosphere. The handbook additionally addresses the significance of adapting communication kinds to swimsuit completely different audiences and conditions. A direct, instructive strategy could also be acceptable in sure operational settings, whereas a extra collaborative and consultative type could also be simpler in different contexts. Communication creates a piece atmosphere that’s useful for mission success.
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Taking Care of Airmen
The Airman’s Handbook emphasizes the duty of leaders to prioritize the well-being of their airmen. This consists of offering enough help, assets, and alternatives for skilled improvement. Leaders are anticipated to be attentive to the wants of their group members, addressing their considerations promptly and pretty. The handbook additionally highlights the significance of fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere the place all airmen really feel valued and revered. Taking good care of airmen goes past assembly their primary wants; it entails investing of their progress, recognizing their contributions, and empowering them to succeed in their full potential. The Air Power achieves excellence when leaders handle airmen.
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Delegation and Empowerment
The “little blue e book air power” addresses the significance of delegation and empowerment as key management ideas. Leaders are inspired to delegate duties and duties to their subordinates, offering them with the authority and assets essential to succeed. Efficient delegation not solely frees up leaders to concentrate on higher-level duties but in addition empowers airmen to develop their expertise and take possession of their work. The handbook additionally emphasizes the significance of offering clear steerage and help to subordinates when delegating duties, guaranteeing that they’ve the data and assets essential to succeed. Leaders can’t anticipate airmen to observe directions within the handbook, if directions will not be supplied.
The interconnectedness of those management ideas, as outlined within the Airman’s Handbook, reinforces the significance of holistic management improvement. Leaders who embody these ideas create a optimistic and productive work atmosphere, fostering a tradition of excellence and contributing to the general mission success of the Air Power.
7. Self-discipline
The connection between self-discipline and the Airman’s Handbook, additionally acknowledged because the “little blue e book air power,” is prime. Self-discipline, as a cornerstone of army effectiveness, is instilled by means of adherence to the rules, laws, and requirements outlined inside the handbook. The handbook serves as a codified supply of expectations, offering a transparent framework for conduct, look, and efficiency. This framework serves as a proactive instrument for self-discipline. For example, the handbook particulars uniform requirements, customs, and courtesies, thereby minimizing ambiguity and fostering constant habits. This prescriptive strategy to self-discipline is crucial for sustaining order, effectivity, and cohesion inside the Air Power. Violations of those requirements, outlined within the handbook, usually lead to corrective actions, reinforcing the significance of disciplined adherence. By mastering the contents of the “little blue e book air power”, airmen turn out to be conditioned towards self-discipline, in addition to compliance, as they progress of their profession.
Past the prescriptive components, the Airman’s Handbook cultivates a deeper understanding of self-discipline’s function. It emphasizes the connection between particular person self-discipline and the broader targets of mission readiness and operational effectiveness. For instance, the handbook underscores the importance of adhering to security protocols, highlighting the potential penalties of negligence or disregard for established procedures. This understanding promotes a way of non-public duty, motivating airmen to internalize disciplined habits and examine it as an integral a part of their skilled id. The “little blue e book air power” additionally prepares them to deal with conditions the place they may encounter lapses in self-discipline and the correct motion to take as they advance of their profession path. These actual life experiences are needed for all army personnel.
In abstract, the “little blue e book air power” isn’t merely a group of guidelines and laws, it’s a key instrument in cultivating a tradition of self-discipline inside the Air Power. It gives a foundational understanding of requirements, promotes a way of non-public duty, and reinforces the connection between particular person habits and the general mission. Whereas challenges might come up in sustaining constant adherence to those requirements, the handbook gives clear expectations and serves as a continuing reminder of the significance of self-discipline in guaranteeing the Air Power’s effectiveness and upholding its values. Airmen who adhere to those values are thought of extremely disciplined and are prime candidates for increased rating promotions.
8. Profession Development
The Airman’s Handbook, usually referred to as the “little blue e book air power,” immediately influences an enlisted member’s profession development inside the US Air Power. Its contents set up the baseline data, requirements of conduct, {and professional} expectations needed for development. A radical understanding of its steerage is commonly a prerequisite for profitable efficiency evaluations, promotion boards, and choice for specialised coaching alternatives. The handbook outlines the anticipated behaviors, customs, and core values that align with the Air Power’s management ideas and mission aims. Adherence to those tenets, as demonstrated by means of constant efficiency and a dedication to skilled improvement, immediately impacts an airman’s potential for upward mobility. Demonstrated experience derived from Airman’s Handbook data is a vital consideration in development choices.
Take into account the sensible functions of this understanding. For example, an airman searching for to progress to the rank of Employees Sergeant should exhibit a complete understanding of the handbook’s content material, significantly its sections on management, self-discipline, and moral conduct. Promotion boards incessantly assess candidates on their data of those subjects, evaluating their capacity to use these ideas in sensible eventualities. Equally, choice for specialised coaching programs, resembling Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, usually requires candidates to exhibit a stable basis within the handbook’s core ideas. People who’re conversant with the handbook’s content material are higher geared up to articulate their understanding of the Air Power’s values, exhibit their dedication to skilled improvement, and articulate their management philosophy. The extent of the understanding of core values, coupled with data of handbook contents, is commonly used as a promotion choice metric.
In abstract, the “little blue e book air power” serves as a roadmap for enlisted profession development inside the Air Power. Its contents present a complete overview of the data, expertise, and values needed for development. Whereas possessing technical experience is vital, a demonstrated dedication to the ideas outlined within the handbook is equally vital for attaining long-term success. Challenges might come up in persistently making use of these ideas within the face of operational calls for or private circumstances, nevertheless, a radical understanding of the handbook’s steerage gives a stable basis for navigating these challenges and sustaining a trajectory {of professional} progress. Mastery of the handbook is vital for long run success.
Incessantly Requested Questions Relating to the “Little Blue E-book Air Power” (Airman’s Handbook)
This part addresses frequent inquiries and misconceptions surrounding the Airman’s Handbook, sometimes called the “little blue e book air power”. The next info is meant to supply readability and a deeper understanding of this important doc.
Query 1: Is the Airman’s Handbook legally binding?
The Airman’s Handbook isn’t a legally binding doc in the identical method as federal legislation or the Uniform Code of Army Justice (UCMJ). Nonetheless, it outlines requirements of conduct, efficiency, and look. Failure to stick to those requirements might lead to administrative or disciplinary motion underneath the UCMJ.
Query 2: How usually is the Airman’s Handbook up to date?
The Airman’s Handbook is revised and up to date periodically to replicate modifications in Air Power coverage, doctrine, and operational necessities. The frequency of updates varies relying on the character and scope of the modifications. Official channels ought to be consulted to make sure entry to essentially the most present model.
Query 3: Is the Airman’s Handbook solely relevant to enlisted personnel?
Whereas the Airman’s Handbook primarily targets enlisted personnel, its ideas and pointers concerning professionalism, management, and core values are related to all members of the Air Power, no matter rank or standing. Officers are anticipated to be conversant in its content material and to uphold the identical requirements of conduct.
Query 4: The place can a duplicate of the Airman’s Handbook be obtained?
The Airman’s Handbook is usually accessible by means of official Air Power channels, together with coaching squadrons, management workplaces, and on-line assets. Entry could also be restricted to licensed personnel. Contact acceptable supervisors for entry to the useful resource.
Query 5: What’s the main function of memorizing parts of the Airman’s Handbook?
Memorization isn’t the first focus. Whereas familiarity with key ideas is vital, the emphasis is on understanding the ideas and making use of them to real-world conditions. The intent is to advertise moral decision-making, skilled conduct, and a dedication to the Air Power’s core values.
Query 6: Does the Airman’s Handbook supersede or change different Air Power Directions (AFIs)?
No, the Airman’s Handbook doesn’t supersede or change different Air Power Directions (AFIs). It serves as a foundational information, offering common ideas and pointers. AFIs present extra detailed and particular directions on specific subjects. In instances of battle, the AFI takes priority.
In essence, the “little blue e book air power” serves as a vital information for members of the US Air Power to help of their each day army actions. It covers core values to skilled requirements.
The concluding section will consolidate the data supplied, and provide a concise recap of the central factors.
Important Steerage from the Airman’s Handbook
The Airman’s Handbook, sometimes called the “little blue e book air power,” gives elementary steerage for achievement within the Air Power. Adhering to its ideas can considerably improve an airman’s skilled improvement and contribution to the mission. The next ideas, derived immediately from this important useful resource, function a sensible information.
Tip 1: Embody the Core Values: Prioritize integrity first, service earlier than self, and excellence in all endeavors. These will not be mere slogans however foundational ideas that information moral decision-making {and professional} conduct.
Tip 2: Adhere to Uniform Requirements: Preserve a meticulous look, guaranteeing uniforms are clear, correctly fitted, and worn in accordance with laws. A pointy look displays self-discipline and professionalism.
Tip 3: Grasp Army Customs and Courtesies: Exhibit respect for superiors, traditions, and the flag. These customs reinforce self-discipline and promote a way of shared id.
Tip 4: Talk Successfully: Make use of clear, concise, {and professional} language in all interactions. Efficient communication minimizes misunderstandings and fosters teamwork.
Tip 5: Take Initiative: Proactively search alternatives to enhance processes, improve expertise, and contribute to the mission. Initiative demonstrates a dedication to excellence.
Tip 6: Repeatedly Search Self-Enchancment: Make investments time in skilled improvement, searching for out coaching alternatives and suggestions to boost data and expertise. A dedication to progress is crucial for profession development.
Tip 7: Preserve Bodily Health: Adhere to health requirements and prioritize bodily well-being. Bodily readiness is crucial for operational effectiveness and general well being.
Constant utility of those ideas fosters a tradition of excellence and contributes to the Air Power’s general effectiveness. These pointers will not be non-obligatory; they’re elementary necessities for achievement.
The next abstract recaps this steerage.
Conclusion
This exploration has clarified the importance of the “little blue e book air power,” in any other case often called the Airman’s Handbook. Its affect extends past a mere assortment of laws. It serves as a elementary information shaping the character, professionalism, and operational readiness of enlisted personnel inside the US Air Power. The ideas detailed inside, encompassing core values, moral conduct, uniform requirements, army customs, management ideas, and disciplined habits, represent the bedrock of a cohesive and efficient preventing power. Its contents are a vital instrument for guaranteeing airmen possess the data and understanding required to navigate the complexities of army service and contribute to the Air Power mission.
Dedication to the tenets outlined on this handbook isn’t merely a matter of compliance, however a foundational ingredient for skilled success and the continued energy of the Air Power. Continued research and utility of those pointers are important for all airmen searching for to uphold the best requirements of service and contribute to the Air Power’s enduring legacy of excellence. The worth and significance of Airman’s Handbook extends to present and future enlisted members.
