The Air Force issued a new standardized guideline spelling out the Chief of Staff’s expectations of every unit commander, entitled Commander’s Responsibilities. “For the first time, the Air Force now has an instruction which sets the minimum standard for successful command,” said Air Force Inspector General Lt. Gen. Stephen Mueller, in a May 21 release. “A great byproduct of this instruction is a standardized template for evaluating and inspecting all Air Force commander’s along four common major graded areas,” explained Mueller. “It’s important for all of us to be on the same page, especially when it comes to standards and conduct,” added Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh. The six-page Air Force Instruction specifies that commanders are responsible for leadership, mission execution, resource management, and unit improvement. They also are expected to “display exemplary conduct … be above reproach, both morally and ethically, and exemplify Air Force core values,” according to the release.
US Space Command Should Always Be Led by a Guardian
Sept. 12, 2026
General Stephen Whiting took command of U.S. Space Command in January 2024, and if customary three-year tenures hold, his tour would end in January 2027. The question now before the President and Senate is who should follow him? Whoever they choose, it has to be a Guardian—and so should every successor…
