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Re-defining 'home' while overseas
Posted 10/4/2012 Updated 10/4/2012
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Commentary by Lt. Col. Shawn Cotton
65 OSS commander & 65 ABW political affairs chief
10/4/2012 - LAJES FIELD, Azores -- At some point after arriving at their first overseas assignment, most Airmen will have what I call their "Dorothy moment." That is the moment, just like Dorothy in the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz, where they realize they're not in Kansas anymore, or any other part of the United States for that matter. In many cases you don't even have to leave the base to recognize that the language is different.
If you venture beyond the front gate, you'll discover additional cultural differences that add flavor to your overseas assignment. For some these differences may be a challenge. For all of us, it represents an opportunity to broaden our perspective as world citizens.
Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta has said "We live in a global world. We have to understand that world if we are going to be able to not only defend this country, but to extend our relationships to others so that we can work together to defend the world that we live in."
At Lajes Field we build relationships with our Portuguese hosts from Air Base 4, as well as our Azorean hosts here on Terceira Island. This partnership has lasted for more than 60 years and is the foundation of our success as a wing. Each and every Airman, uniformed or otherwise, plays an important role.
In order to help develop your cultural competency and strengthen our host nation relationships, I offer three suggestions.
First, immerse yourself in the Portuguese language. Language is the key that opens the door to cultural understanding. Start by buying a basic English-Portuguese dictionary. Then dig in!
The wing sponsors a free monthly introductory Portuguese language and culture class that is open to all US personnel. Taking it a step further, the Education Office offers Portuguese courses for college credit which count toward CCAF degrees and are eligible for tuition assistance.
For those more inclined to study on their own, the library has free language software that can help build your vocabulary and grammar skills. Once you have some tools to work with, just speak, listen, ask questions and don't be afraid to make mistakes.
Next, explore you surroundings. It may be a small island, but the opportunities for adventure are diverse and plentiful.
Outdoor Recreation is an excellent resource for finding interesting options you may not have otherwise considered. Ask for suggestions from your co-workers, neighbors and especially the local nationals with whom you interact every day.
Check out the numerous festivals and celebrations that happen throughout the year. When you think you've exhausted all options on Terceira, there are eight more islands, each with its own unique flavor and traditions.
Finally, read. A quick online search with the key word "Azores" brings up several book titles that will arm you with historical and cultural insights you just won't get any other way.
United States history and Azorean history intersect repeatedly. Understanding those linkages enhances our overseas experience and helps deepen relationships with our hosts.
Dorothy may have claimed that "there's no place like home." But as we develop cross-cultural competencies, our definition of "home" becomes a little broader and in the process we keep Lajes Field "In the Fight!"
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