A philosophy fit for everyone

He’s earned more competitive titles in bodybuilding and powerlifting than years he’s been alive — and he turns 43 in October.

But more impressive than his age and records of athleticism is the determination he’s maintained to get him this far.

Recently named the 2010 U.S. Air Forces in Europe Athlete of the Year, Senior Master Sgt. Troy D. Saunders, command vehicle management superintendent for USAFE’s Logistics Directorate, applies the principles of physical fitness to his professional life as well.

As a result, he’s also been selected for promotion to chief master sergeant, joining the 1 percent of the Air Force’s enlisted Airmen who share the highest rank achievable.

Sergeant Saunders said being in the Air Force has simply encouraged his philosophy on life.

“The military is very oriented in being your best,” he said. “There’s a lot of correlation between becoming the top in any type of physical endeavor, and being the top in education, doing the best for your family and at work.”

Sergeant Saunders’ foundation for fitness started at a young age, when he spent his early mornings and late afternoons working on his family’s farm. At 10 years old, he was the only kid allowed in the high school gym, and when he finally started his freshman year, he was out-benching most of the high school seniors. It was around the same time that his father died as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle that led to cancer and eventually a heart attack.

“My focus switched to be more conscious of my overall health. People that were successful in sports didn’t smoke and didn’t drink,” Sergeant Saunders said. “My drive was to be the best, healthiest me.”

The sergeant treated his career with that same mindset, drawing parallels between his passion for fitness and his desire to excel.

“It’s really been a 10, 12 year trip for me to getting promoted to chief,” he said. “That whole time, I applied the same principles: I have to do this step, then this step, I have to know my job, I have to become more educated.”

With degrees in management science and mechanical studies and a teaching certificate and various fitness certifications, he has used his knowledge to give back to Airmen. Tech. Sgt. Lorenzo Peterson, 86th Security Forces Squadron physical security and anti-terrorism force protection noncommissioned officer in charge, said Sergeant Saunders has guided him professionaly, both on and off duty.

“He has been my mentor, trainer, teammate, friend, judge and coach over the years,” Sergeant Peterson said.

Because of this relationship, Sergeant Peterson was named USAFE Athlete of the Year twice and is also a three-time 86th SFS NCO of the Year.

“I watched Sergeant Saunders win (those) first,” Sergeant Peterson said. “(He) is very motivational and an inspiration to all. I have pretty much followed in his footsteps.”

And with his upcoming promotion, it’s no surprise that his leadership sees the same qualities.

“Sergeant Saunders’ professionalism is unquestionable,” said Chief Master Sgt. Gabriel Hage, USAFE’s Logistics Directorate functional manager for 2T3 vehicle management.

Chief Hage has also had the chance to witness Sergeant Saunders’ mentorship stretch from the office to the gym and beyond.

“Troy is one of the most genuine Airmen I’ve ever met. His undying devotion to serve the Airmen in this command is transparent through each of his selfless acts,” the chief said. “He epitomizes the Air Force core value of excellence in every action.”

Sergeant Saunders has coached teams of Airmen athletes at all levels of competition, but his philosophy on fitness can apply to anyone’s efforts in self-improvement. He could talk for days about the benefits of working out and tips on what to do, but it all boils down to one simple piece of advice.

“If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, it’s hard to keep doing it. Find a sport, exercise or activity that you enjoy,” he said.

If that becomes difficult, he recommends finding motivation by working out with family and friends.

Though he doesn’t have children of his own to guide, he’s become an example to younger Airmen everywhere, proving that with the right amount of determination, there’s no limit to what you can accomplish.

In February, Sergeant Saunders will permanently change duty stations, assuming the logistics director functional manager position for the 2T3 Vehicle Management Career Field at Scott Air Force Base, Ill.