Sharpening the focus: Buckley implements standards, readiness reviews

Published April 3, 2025
By Tech. Sgt. Jordan Thompson
Space Base Delta 2

BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFNS) -- Eyes locked forward, a formation of Airmen and Guardians from Space Base Delta 2, stands at attention at Buckley Space Force Base, March 21.

The silence is palpable, punctuated only by the crisp commands of Master Sgt. Ryan McCammon, Space Base Delta 2 first sergeant, as he inspects each detail of their uniforms. This is a snapshot of Buckley SFB's proactive approach to mission readiness.

With recent changes like those made to Air Force Instruction 36-2903's regulations on hair, gig lines and nail polish, the force is renewing its commitment to a culture of adherence to standards with a focus on shared "First Principles." This concept applies the following criteria:

1. Valuing the warfighting team over our individuality and mission over function.

2. Standards must be easily understood, universally complied with and consistently enforced…at all levels of command.

3. Standards and processes should not stigmatize Airmen and Guardians; those in full compliance should not be self-conscious or embarrassed.

a service members addresses a formation of service members. — U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Ryan McCammon, Space Base Delta 2, First Sergeant, addresses service members during a Standards and Readiness Review uniform inspection at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., March 21, 2025. Following the inspection, the First Sergeant provided feedback and reinforced the importance of maintaining military appearance standards. (U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hollis)

a woman writes on a clipboard — U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Kristina Davis, 460th Force Support Squadron superintendent, annotates uniform observations during a Standards and Readiness Review uniform inspection at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., March 14, 2025. Inspectors carefully documented observations to ensure service members met uniform standards. (U.S. Space Force photo by Master Sgt. Carlin Leslie)

a service member stands in formation while being inspected — U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob Hedges, 460th Force Support Squadron customer support non-commissioned officer in charge, stands at attention during a Standards and Readiness Review uniform inspection at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., March 14, 2025. These SRRs, mandated by the Chief of Staff and Headquarters Air Force, are focused assessments conducted at the unit level to identify and address factors inhibiting mission readiness and execution. (U.S. Space Force photo by Master Sgt. Carlin Leslie)

"These reviews are about more than just appearances," McCammon stated. "They are a critical component of our commitment to maintaining a culture of readiness and excellence.”

Team Buckley has implemented Standards and Readiness Reviews across all units, underscoring a commitment to maintaining a highly trained and disciplined force.

SRRs, brought back by Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin, are focused assessments conducted at the unit level to identify and address factors inhibiting mission readiness and execution. Commanders have been charged with creating a culture of compliance and accountability while promoting unit cohesion and mission pride.

The initiative examines physical and mental health, deployment readiness, training standards and overall resilience. Ensuring these standards are met individually reinforces the disciplined execution of mission elements necessary for preparedness and lethality.

“When our Airmen and Guardians are held accountable to the standard, it fosters a sense of discipline and professionalism that is essential to mission success,” McCammon said. “Enforcing standards is a continuous process. We must create a culture of compliance and accountability in order to successfully execute the demands of tomorrow.”

These quarterly inspections are more than just uniform checks; they represent our preparedness to operate in the face of any challenge.

The SRRs will include inspections of different uniforms throughout the year, including both Service Dress and Operational Camouflage Patterns, reinforcing the importance of maintaining standards across all military life.

"Your commitment to excellence makes us a winning team of warfighters. One that is envied across the planet." Allvin stated in a recent memorandum. "As we follow through on shaping our force to meet the needs of today's strategic environment, we can never lose sight of the fundamental elements that make us who we are."