Diamond View Published June 2, 2009 By MSgt John Deegan 75 CEG First Sergeant HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- One of the most valuable assets your career can have is a good mentor. The original Mentor is a character in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey. When Odysseus, King of Ithaca went to fight in the Trojan War, he entrusted the care of his kingdom to a man named Mentor. Mentor served as the teacher and overseer of Odysseuss' son, Telemachus. Mentoring is a relationship in which a person with greater experience and wisdom guides another person to develop both personally and professionally. The long-term health of the Air Force depends upon the experienced member developing the next in line. Mentoring helps prepare people for the increased responsibilities they will assume as they progress in their careers. In particular, mentoring is part of a professional relationship built on communication and trust between a mentor and protégé. This relationship develops their careers, performance, and personal lives. Furthermore, it enhances morale and discipline and improves the operational environment while maintaining respect for authority. Key to the mentoring process is the direct involvement of the mentor. They must continually challenge their protégé to improve and provide clear guidance in setting realistic professional and personal development goals--near, mid-, and long-term. Mentors must distinguish between individual goals, career aspirations, and realistic expectations in order to fully develop a protégé. The Air Force must develop people skilled in the employment of air, space, and cyberspace power. Your legacy and the future of the Air Force rest on the shoulders of those you prepare for greater responsibility.