CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- In 1948, an 18 year old Robert Gaylor enlisted into the barely one-year-old U.S. Air Force to serve in the security police career field. He dedicated the next 31 years to the force, fulfilling multiple leadership roles until ultimately retiring at the highest enlisted position possible.
Now 86, retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, visited Cannon Air Force Base Aug. 11 as a guest speaker for numerous base functions.
During an all call with more than 700 Airmen, Gaylor explained the close relationship needed between productivity and happiness in the workplace.
“Productive workers are happy,” Gaylor said. “There is no substitute for a feeling of involvement, participation or contribution. Outside environmental factors are important, but it is really the sense of belonging and having a purpose that ensures job satisfaction.”
Gaylor also met with smaller audiences throughout the day, including joining a group of younger Airmen for lunch before speaking to the current leadership class at Cannon Airman Leadership School. Concluding his visit, Gaylor spoke to those who attended a senior noncommissioned officer induction ceremony at the Landing Zone on base, where he challenged the new master sergeant selects with one question—
“What are you waiting for?” Gaylor asked. “You are now a master of your craft. Go out and get things done. Don’t sit around and wait for direction. You have already proven you have what it takes by getting to this level. Now it is time to act on it. Trust yourself and just do it.”
Gaylor reminded Airmen how the service has progressed since his time, giving the credit to Air Force core values that have remained intact throughout the years.