OC-ALC executive director leaves 'home' Published July 16, 2007 By Kandis West Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- On June 22, 1977 an unassuming young man walked through the doors of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center to begin his career as a logistics management specialist in north end of bldg. 3001. "I couldn't even find my way to the cafeteria back then," said Garry Richey, OC-ALC executive director. And after spending 25 years with the logistics center, next week Mr. Richey will walk out those very same doors for the last time, but from the command section as a member of the Senior Executive Service, the civilian equivalent to a two star general. Mr. Richey is not leaving a government institution, he is leaving his home, he said. "This is home," he said. "I feel like folks have to accept me here, because they helped 'raise' me." And home it is. He still travels down to the north end of Bldg. 3001 and occasionally you will hear someone just call him Garry. Not because they don't respect his SES status, but because they're an old friend. "Some of those folks have known me since I was a kid out of college," Mr. Richey said fondly. That's what Mr. Richey said he would miss most, the friends, family and familiarity. "You can't make new old friends," he said. He will be leaving his post at Tinker and accepting a position as the first civilian Director of Logistics, Installation and Mission Support for an Air Force Major Command. He'll serve as the A4/7 at Headquarters Air Education and Training Command at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas. "This move surprised a lot of people, including myself," he said. "But we're excited about the new opportunity," he added True to his philosophy of being ready and willing and with his wife's encouragement, he accepted the new challenge. Despite 30 years of service already on the books, he is not ready to slow down. "Life is meant to be lived to the fullest. I am waiting to see what the next adventure brings," Mr. Richey said. Regardless of his location or position, Mr. Richey's four attributes of greatness will follow him. Aspiration is at the top of his list. "Aspire to greatness," he said. "That's not targeting a rank or position, but rather a level of performance and contribution to the team and the mission." Next is preparation. Mr. Richey recommends being willing and ready at all times through education, training and experience. "A lot of people miss opportunities because they are not prepared." Preparation is followed by perspiration. "You gotta work hard," he said. Last, but not least, is inspiration. "More than motivational, I want to be inspirational," he said. "You can motivate people out of fear or to avoid punishment, but if you're inspired, it's often because you've found the highest example of excellence, sacrifice or service in someone. And that creates a desire, from within, to match that example of excellence." It's not only Mr. Richey's attributes of success that have helped him rise from an entry level position to the command section that makes him a successful leader, nor his kind, inspirational words, but it is his gentle servant's heart that portrays greatness. "I've been blessed to have wonderful opportunities, many right here at Tinker. Every day I get to rub shoulders with heroes who sacrifice and serve and do it in such a quality way. It all boils down to service. If you want to give your life in service, this is a great place and great way to do it," Mr. Richey said, fighting back tears.