SPONSORS, NOMINEES - DR. JAMES & GAIL COLVIN

veteran | 20 years in the u.s. Air force

Dr. James Colvin

What is your perspective of patriotism?

Charles de Gaulle said, “Patriotism is when the love of your own people comes first; nationalism when hate for people other than your own comes first.” I support French Prime Minister de Gaulle’s definition of patriotism. It is the love of country and the values it represents. However, for military and government members patriotism is much deeper. Especially, in our all-volunteer force. Patriotism is captured in the Oath of Office/Enlistment/Service - to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. The oath is important because it represents the commitment to the duties, responsibilities and obligations associated with holding public office. Thank you!

What do you do, post active duty?

I work in Federal Civil Service for the Department of the Air Force. Currently, I am the Deputy Chief, Current Operations Plans Branch, Current Operations Division, Directorate of Space and Cyber Operations, Headquarters Space Operations Command, United States Space Force, PetersonSchriever Garrison, CO.

I serve on the Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) – Utilities Policy Advisory Committee (UPAC). We work on assignments and make recommendations to the Colorado Springs Utilities Board. I also serve on the El Pomar Foundation’s Black Advisory Committee. I am a Co-Founder and Board Member of the USAFA Way of Life Alumni Affinity Group of the Association of Graduates.

Additionally, I am a member of Sigma Pi Phi, Epsilon Chi Member Boule’ and member of the Knights of Columbus Council 14436 at the USAF Academy Community Center Chapel.

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myblackcolorado.com/military

Gail Colvin

Director of Staff U.S. Air Force Academy

What did you do in the service?

While on active duty, I served as Chief of Joint Doctrine for the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon. I led the U.S. delegation to NATO’s subcommittee on joint war fighting interoperability and led efforts across national and international partners. I commanded a mission support squadron, a services squadron, and a mission support group of nearly 1,800 people at Holloman AFB, NM. My final assignment was at the Air Force Academy as a Vice Commandant.

What is your perspective of patriotism?

I think patriotism is about a commitment and a responsibility to make the country better no matter where you sit. I think it can take many forms. It can be public service or the mere act of voting. It can be working in your local community not only in an official capacity but in an unofficial capacity to solve local issues to elevate and identify them. There are just many ways to think and demonstrate patriotism because it means different things to different people. It was in the 30 years of military service defending the nation upholding the constitution, I deeply and proudly believe in those ideals and know what this country stands for. But I also believe in the equitable application of all those principles to all citizens no matter their entity and their right to demonstrate their patriotism.

What should a person consider before they decide to serve their country?

Joining any profession, you have to do your homework to see if it’s a good fit for you. There’s a lot of structure in the military that requires uniformity on a lot of levels. Also, I do think that the positives out way all those things. It’s a great start for younger people in terms of opportunity and personal growth. terms of opportunity and personal growth.

Read Full Interview at

myblackcolorado.com/military

veteran | 30 years in the u.s. Air force

ASIA MOSS

“I currently work at the Air Force Academy as the Director of Staff. The Air Force is my alma mater, so it was like a full circle returning to work here.”