? Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh is asking airmen to suggest books that will be part of the 2015 CSAF Professional Reading Program list. “I ask you to give me your thoughts on those books and movies that have inspired you throughout your service as an airman, that have made you proud to be among the half-a-percent of Americans who’ve dedicated themselves to the profession of arms, or gave you a new perspective on integrity, service, or excellence,” said Welsh in an Aug. 14 release. Welsh said the list generated with airmen’s input would “make our Air Force stronger.” He added, “I’m excited to hear from you and excited to read some terrific books recommended by the greatest airmen in the world.” Since 1996, the Chief of Staff has issued an annual list of motivational and inspiring reading material to give airmen a new perspective on their Air Force careers, highlighting particular themes. More recently, the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force has been a part of this initiative. Click here for the link to make a suggestion. (Here’s the 2014 reading list.)
Amid a high-profile recruiting crisis, Air Force leaders and experts have increasingly noted the challenging long-term trends the service will face in enticing young Americans to sign up—decreasing eligibility to serve, less propensity to do so, and less familiarity with the military. But while those same leaders say there’s no “silver…