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"Tuffy's Heroes" is a must read for anyone who has ever served, is connected to, or aspires to serve as an instructor in the basic training environment, as well as anyone who wants an authentic look into the basic training experience.
A great storyteller, Air Force Master Sergeant Joe Tofuri humorously and at times, bluntly provides you his perspective on the day-to-day demands and challenges of an Air Force basic training flight, in addition to the personal life of an instructor. He vividly recants his experiences regarding the dream of every instructor: That one flight that seems to put it all together and keeps it that way from the moment the recruits arrive until they graduate. Throughout, Sergeant Tofuri provides invaluable insights into the training process for instructors and anyone else connected with basic training. The application of these golden nuggets will surely enhance anyone's time in basic military training. A Master Military Training Instructor, Sergeant Tofuri is imminently qualified to provide this view of the training environment. With more than 13 years experience as a TI, he was one of the initial cadre of instructors selected to wear the coveted Blue Rope when it was introduced in 1975. This honor is reserved for the top 10% of all instructors and few ever achieve this distinction. His selection for this award underscores the respect and admiration his superiors had in him when he served as an instructor.
Sergeant Tofuri is the epitome of a successful TI. He is brash, at times arrogant, and absolutely certain of his leadership abilities and how to use these attributes to influence and mold young recruits in preparation for service to their country. Although the setting is in the late 1960's, this is a timeless book that will in very short order become a classic for instructors and anyone else with an interest in basic training regardless of Service.
CMSgt (Ret) John J. Pavey, Jr.
President, USAF Military Training Instructor Association
