SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – -- The 310th Space Wing held multiple stand-down discussions addressing the issue of extremism during the Unit Training Assembly May 1-2.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin and a Department directed each military branch to conduct stand-down discussions addressing extremism with one hundred percent of their personnel. The deadline to complete this is June 6 for the Air Force Reserve.
“While the First Amendment of the Constitution recognizes freedom of expression, it is our obligation to stand against extremism, as we should with anything that threatens to undermine good order, discipline, trust and our culture of respect,” said Acing Secretary of the Air Force John P. Roth, in his memorandum to Airmen and Guardians.
To meet this objective, the wing’s Reserve Citizen Airmen led multiple small-group discussions on the oath enlisted Airmen and officers took when they joined, impermissible behaviors and procedures for reporting suspected or actual extremist behaviors. This format was designed to allow for direct, thought-provoking and honest conversation on the topic of extremism with each Airman.
“We took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic,” said Roth in a video addressing the force. “We have a responsibility to defend the nation for all Americans.”
During the discussion, participants were asked to share their thoughts and experiences concerning extremism, both within and outside of the workplace. Additionally, discussion leaders provided scenarios and asked questions to help the participants dive deeper into the why and how extremist ideologies take hold.