JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas – Col. Gregory R. Bodenstein took command of the Air Force Security Forces Center in June, bringing 24 years of Air Force experience to the AFIMSC enterprise.
As the AFSFC commander, he directs the day-to-day operations of the center to organize, train, and equip more than 38,000 security forces members across the active and reserve components.
"The foundation of my leadership approach is connection," Bodenstein said, emphasizing that fostering strong interpersonal bonds among team members is the key to building a highly successful and mission-focused organization.
We asked the Michigan native a few questions about his life, career, and thoughts about joining the AFIMSC team.
How many years have you been with the Air Force?
24 years.
Tell us a little about your career leading up to this point.
Over my career, I've served around the globe—with assignments spanning the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, and back home in the U.S. Along the way, I've worn a lot of different hats, leading teams as a flight leader and section commander, managing day-to-day operations as an operations and executive officer, and serving as a staff officer at AFSFC and the Air Staff. I am a four-time squadron commander. Just before stepping into my current role, I served as the 37th Training Group commander here at JBSA-Lackland.
What do you like most about serving in the Air Force?
The connections and relationships with people the Air Force has given me.
What excites you most about your new role?
The opportunity to lead a high-performing team in pursuit of ensuring Defenders across the enterprise are equipped and trained to successfully assure air, space, and cyber power around the globe.
How would you describe your leadership approach?
The foundation of my leadership approach is connection. My theory is a team that is connected to each other easily connects to the team’s purpose. A team that is well-connected to their purpose will be high-performing.
What do you want the AFIMSC team to know about you?
I look forward to connecting and building relationships across AFIMSC.
What's something people would be surprised to know about you?
I served five years in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Santa Barbara, at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois, and at the Naval Reserve Unit in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
When I was a young lieutenant, I once said to my flight, “You are either outstanding or you are outprocessing.”
When Chief Master Sgt. Randy Akers overheard this, he pulled me into the office and mentored me on how important every Airman is to accomplishing the mission, even those who are not outstanding. He said it is my job and challenge to connect with each Airman so I can help them reach their individual potential. I am so grateful for receiving that mentorship very early in my career.
Learn more about Bodenstein by reading his official biography at www.afimsc.af.mil/About-Us/Biographies/Display/Article/4535000/gregory-r-bodenstein/.