AUGUST FIRST FEMALE VICE COMMANDER IN OHIO ANG: DISTINCTION NOT AS IMPORTANT AS GETTING THE JOB DONE, SHE SAYS Published March 16, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Annette Kornasiewicz 180th Public Affairs April 2009 -- When Col. Nancy August became the 180th Vice Commander January 1, 2009, she also assumed the distinction of being the first female to do so in the Ohio Air National Guard. What is her message to all members in the military in light of her accomplishment? Male or female, do your best job, always. "It is not about gender. It is about doing the best job you can do every day. It is about taking care of people. It is about treating all personnel with respect. It is about core values. It is about staying relevant and managing change. It is about being part of the team," said August. "My goal has always been to make a positive contribution to the Air Force and the Ohio Air National Guard and to go as far as I could." And excel in her career she did. In fact, August says she is most proud of making Staff Sgt. in less than four years on active duty. Throughout her Air Force experience that began when she enlisted in 1967 there have been many "lessons learned," along the way. August suggests that we be ready to turn those lessons into opportunities. "This is your career. Be involved. Be proactive and pay attention to what is going on in your career field, at the unit and the Air National Guard. It is a given that you need to accomplish your Professional Military Education timely, regardless if you are enlisted or officer," said August. "But you also need to focus on leadership opportunities and be prepared for when the opportunity presents itself. Always do a good job for yourself as a person and maintain personal accountability." August's life work and philosophy can serve as an inspiration for all servicemembers, challenging us to excel in our Guard careers. "The fact that I am first female is a coincidence; I may be the first, but I won't be the last," said August.