What is meant by "Service Before Self" in Air Force values?

The principle of "Service Before Self" reflects a core value of the Air Force that emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the demands of the mission and the needs of the country over individual desires and ambitions. This value is foundational to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the military as a whole. When service members embrace this concept, they demonstrate a commitment to their duties, fellow personnel, and the larger goals of national defense. By placing the mission's objectives first, they contribute to the overall success and readiness of the Air Force and ensure that collective goals are met even in challenging circumstances.

In contrast, prioritizing personal wellbeing over mission requirements would be contrary to this value, as it indicates a focus on individual needs at the expense of duty. Similarly, focusing on personal career advancement before common team goals undermines the collaborative spirit essential for military cohesion. Lastly, while working collaboratively with international allies is important to military operations and diplomacy, it does not directly encapsulate the essence of "Service Before Self," which is inherently about one’s dedication to the mission and the service before personal interests.