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Meet the new Contracting Squadron commander

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Megan Friedl
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Lt. Col. Annette Harvey, the new 375th Contracting Squadron Commander, assumed command June 29. The Illinois native started her career right after finishing the Air Force ROTC program. She later became a flight training instructor and taught cadets going through ROTC, too. Harvey strives to encourage people to have mission and personal excellence, while upholding the Air Force Core Values.

Q: What led you to joining the Air Force?

A: My high school guidance counselor, Mr. Bailey, led me to join the Air Force. The evening before I met with him to discuss future opportunities, I saw an Air Force commercial on TV. I told him I was interested in the Air Force but wanted to go to college. He introduced me to the Air Force ROTC program and here I am today.

Q: What is your favorite Air Force memory?

A: My favorite Air Force memory is being a Flight Training Instructor during my assignment teaching ROTC. I truly enjoyed working with the cadets from all across the country. Some had confidence coming in and some didn't. It was great seeing them all leave with a great sense of accomplishment and increased confidence.

Q: What do you look forward to during your command?

A: My last two assignments were with the United States Army and at a Department of Defense Agency. I'm looking forward to leading a unit of Airmen and Air Force civilians. While the Air Force has changed a lot in the last five years, I'm glad to be back.

Q: What is your favorite part of being a commander?

A: My favorite part of being a commander is getting to know people and understanding what motivates each individual. I enjoy seeing people succeed both at mission execution and in the personal aspects of their lives. I also enjoy seeing people overcome challenges and perceived barriers.

Q: What can the 375th Contracting Squadron Airmen expect from you?

A: The Airmen of 375th CONS can expect me to ensure the unit is one that upholds the Air Force Core Values. Each and every member should honor those values, including me.

Q: What do you want from your troops?

A: I want each person in the squadron to be engaged and motivated to support the mission. Everyone is an integral part of mission accomplishment.

Q: What advice do you have for those under your leadership?

A: My advice is to do your best and when your best isn't possible, let someone know what's holding you back. Hopefully those barriers can be removed or minimized.

Q: What is your leadership philosophy?

A: I intend to treat people with fairness, respect and candor, while encouraging and empowering people to strive for both mission and personal excellence.

Q: Who is your hero and why?

A: My hero is Col. Joshua Chamberlain, Commander of the 20th Maine Regiment during the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War. While his troops were outnumbered, undersupplied and exhausted, he developed a quick plan of action and led them to successfully exploit a weakness in the enemy's line. This ultimately resulted in a Union victory at the Battle of Little Round Top. While he was faced with what seemed to be insurmountable challenges, he persevered with swift thought and action to achieve victory over the adversary. He was respected by many as an intelligent, motivating and yet humble leader.