Published: 1 December 2008
Air & Space Power Journal - Winter 2008

Heirpower! Eight Basic Habits of Exceptionally Powerful Lieutenants by CMSgt Bob Vásquez, USAF, retired. Air University Press (http://www.maxwell.af.mil/au/aul/aupress), 131 West Shumacher Avenue, Maxwell AFB, Alabama 36112-5962, 2006, 88 pages, $8.50 (softcover). Available free from http://www.maxwell.af.mil/au/aul/aupress/Books/Vasquez/vasquez.pdf.

Retired chief master sergeant Bob Vásquez’s book Heirpower! is the perfect guide to help new second lieutenants break bad habits so they can become effective officers. Chief Vásquez, who has worked with many lieutenants fresh out of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), officers’ training school, and the Air Force Academy, made many observations during his 30 years of service and became very familiar with young officers’ flaws. Unsurprisingly then, his very well written book contains numerous useful tips and examples. For instance, in chapter 1 he covers first impressions, recalling how things immediately started off on the wrong foot upon meeting a new lieutenant, whom he describes as “look[ing] terrible” (p. 5). Even though the lieutenant had the appropriate leadership skills and abilities, the manner in which he presented himself to the chief and those within the organization was unprofessional.

The author constantly surprised me with brilliant analogies. I found myself thinking, “Wow! I never would have thought of it that way!” For example, making a point about attitude in chapter 3, he discusses the difference between a thermometer and a thermostat, the former obviously measuring temperature and the latter controlling it. He asks, “Would you prefer be a thermometer, an instrument that assesses the environment . . . or . . . a thermostat, controlling those external things that bombard you and can influence you?” (p. 17). This inspired me to begin taking charge of those events that could distort my performance as an ROTC cadet and eventually as a lieutenant. One statement of his particularly touched me: “If you’re my lieutenant, I’m not going to let anyone or anything harm you! I’m responsible for your success” (p. 61). Such a comment clearly shows loyalty and devotion.

Although the majority of Heirpower! proved quite insightful, a few areas fell short. For example, Chief Vásquez occasionally repeats himself and avoids getting straight to the point. Also, despite the fact that he addresses a young audience, its members are more sophisticated and mature than the average teenager to whom he frequently alludes in illustrating his ideas. Nevertheless, because Chief Bob Vásquez’s advice is hard to top, I highly recommend Heirpower! to all current and future officers, especially those just starting their careers.

 Cadet Luis Santiago
Air Force ROTC, University of Houston

Disclaimer

The conclusions and opinions expressed in this document are those of the author cultivated in the freedom of expression, academic environment of Air University. They do not reflect the official position of the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, the United States Air Force or the Air University.

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