The 'Civilian Creed' Published April 2, 2008 By Sherrie Briggs Directorate of Plans DENVER -- Most of us are familiar with the Airman's Creed. We've heard it read at many ceremonies right here at the Air Reserve Personnel Center. For those of you who don't remember all the words, here it is: I am an American Airman. I am a Warrior. I have answered my Nation's call. I am an American Airman. My mission is to Fly, Fight, and Win. I am faithful to a Proud Heritage, A Tradition of Honor, And a Legacy of Valor. I am an American Airman, Guardian of Freedom and Justice, My Nation's Sword and Shield, Its Sentry and Avenger. I defend my Country with my Life. I am an American Airman: Wingman, Leader, Warrior. I will never leave an Airman behind, I will never falter, And I will not fail. If you were to substitute the word "Civilian" where the word "Airman" appears you could almost say it was written for civilians, too. Many civilian employees may not do the flying part -- even though some are reservists in addition to our civilian jobs -- but we can certainly identify with this creed. It does apply to us, too! We are warriors and have answered our nation's call in so many different ways. It takes very special people to devote their career and life to serving their country as a civil servant. Many of us could be working in the private sector, making more money; instead, we chose a life of government service. I don't know how you feel about your job, but when I come in every day, I am focused on being there for the thousands of Airmen who may need me. Even though we aren't technically wielding a sword like they are, civilian employees are guardians of freedom and justice in our own way. Without us, these brave Airmen wouldn't get paid for their sacrifice and service; they wouldn't know that their families are safe in our hands while they are deployed. When they are eligible to retire, they know they can count on us to give them a fair accounting of their participation points that are vital to calculate their retired pay. When they have questions or need something from their personnel records, they know they can get it on ARPC's Web site or give us a call. I know we are appreciated for the fantastic job we do -- I've heard it from so many reservists over the years from all over the world. Be a wingman and a leader in your immediate area and at ARPC. While you are at work, focus on your responsibilities -- give a fair day's work for a fair day's pay, and remember why you are here. To quote William James, a 19th century American philosopher and psychologist, "The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes." If you don't believe you will never falter and you will not fail, try adjusting your attitude. You are a warrior and you do defend your country -- be proud to be an "American Civilian!" I know I am.