Chief of Air Force, AIRMSHL Angus Houston (right) and AIRCDRE Peter McDermott, Commandant of the Australian Command Staff College, with a painting of Sir Richard Williams.

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Angus Houston quoted some great airmen and recalled some memorable moments for the RAAF while speaking of the issues 'Air Force must address in the next 20 years', as he welcomed the single Service component for Royal Australian Air Force personnel studying at the Australian Command and Staff College (ACSC).

'I am happy to be here on this important day, to address our future Air Force leaders. You have just come out of the 21-week common phase, and now enter the single-Service phase, after which you will enter the joint phase.

'This approach recognises the interdependent and integrated environment that exists in Defence today. Following graduation from the college, it will be your job to provide expert advice and work effectively with those you come into contact with in both the Air Force and Joint environment, so grasp the opportunity to do the same in this academic environment. The relationships you have here are critical - teamwork is fundamental.

'I learnt a hell-of-a-lot (at Command and Staff Course) from my colleagues from other specialist areas. I very quickly became aware that you can't take anyone in the Air Force for granted; the only way we can get our full value as an Air Force is to work as a team which includes the full range of expertise and experience represented at this college.'

The Chief of Air Force also addressed the issue of air power in the 21st Century, with reference to human resources. 'Air power is a fundamental part of combat power, which allows us to achieve operational objectives. No conventional conflict has ever been won without first establishing control of the air.

'In the joint environment, all Air Force capabilities are important and are only attained with quality people working together to achieve the required operational effects.

'Essentially we have a bright future - given the implications of the White Paper. I need to concentrate on people given our shortages and the outcomes from the Attitude Survey.'

Air Marshal Houston summarised his speech to the newest Air Force brains trust.

'Where big decisions will be made, you will need to shape and determine what happens - with the skills you will get from this college. We get results through people but only if you lead, command and behave in accordance with the RAAF values statement.

'By commanding in accordance with our values, you will ensure that you get the best performance from our people.'

Story by Amber McKinnon
Photograph by FLTLT Peter Greenacre