March 20, 2012
by Brian Brackens
Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs
3/20/2012 – WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) — Gen. Donald Hoffman, the commander of Air Force Materiel Command, will be inducted into AFMC’s Order of the Sword in a ceremony March 30 at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
“Induction into the order is the highest honor that enlisted Airmen can place on a leader,” said Chief Master Sgt. Eric Jaren, the AFMC command chief and member of the order’s selection committee. “The Order of the Sword stands for truth, power and justice rightfully used, and we’ve found General Hoffman to be a standout among leaders.”
Within the Air Force, the order serves to honor individuals for their impact on the enlisted force as well as signify the faith and confidence that enlisted members have in the leadership abilities of the honoree.
Historically, the order traces its lineage to 12th century Europe where members of royal armies would present their leader with a ceremonial sword to convey loyalty and proclaim the leader’s ability in battle.
Jaren said that induction into the Order of the Sword is not an annual event and in the 20-year history of AFMC only seven people have been inducted.
“Induction into the order is not an automatic for command leaders,” he said. “Only a limited few are selected, and General Hoffman has certainly proven himself to be the kind of leader that the order recognizes.
“In this tough fiscal environment he has continued to make a positive impact on our enlisted Airmen by promoting education and training initiatives and by making investments in facilities that impact Airmen, such as leadership schools and dormitories,” Jaren said.