Family is a key ingredient to mission success

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Michael Williams
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing command chief
I trust that each of you had a wonderful and safe holiday season. Well, 2007 is here and we're just about midway through January.

Funny how time flies when you're having fun.

During the holiday break, I took a two-week sabbatical and dedicated that time to my family. We had a festive time enjoying one another, doing things we'd postponed since our arrival at Travis, and creating memories which added extra strength to our already strong foundation.

Our loved ones should always be our primary focus. They are truly an important part of what we do and why we serve this great nation.

Yet, we often take loved ones for granted believing they will understand if we remain at work a little late, miss a birthday, a soccer game or an anniversary. And you know what?

They do understand our dedication to this duty we volunteered for.

Arguably, they're the key to our mission success. In my opinion, they are the glue which holds Team Travis and this great Air Force together. We owe it to our families and loved ones to carve out a few precious moments from our busy schedules for them.

Better yet, make time for them and ensure your Airmen take time for their loved ones as well.

Our commitment and devotion to preserving freedom, democracy and peace across the globe demands many sacrifices.

Our families embody the true meaning of sacrifice. If they did not, could you do what you do or could you have accomplished the things you have thus far without their unyielding support?

I know for a fact I would not. My wife knows just as much, if not more, about this duty I've dedicated my life to.

My sons understand my loyalty towards this duty, but when dad does something out of the ordinary, such as come home early to play a game of basketball, my youngest face lights brighter than our Christmas tree.

That, my friend, is priceless!

Last weekend I visited Lackland Air Force Base, Texas and was given an opportunity to address approximately 800 trainees.

After my speech, I offered up a chance for questions. One trainee raised his hand, stood and said, "Sir, during your initial remarks you stated you married your high school sweet heart." I replied, "Yes and that was the best thing that ever happened to her."

Of course my reply rendered a few chuckles from the audience. He went on to say, "What advice can you give the married trainees to help ease their family's transition into the Air Force and to enhance their longevity."

My response was simple, "communicate, communicate, communicate with your spouse and remain friends. You two existed prior to the Air Force and, with God's help, will exist after the Air Force. The Air Force is as much a part of me as I am a part of it.
However, I will not always be a chief on active duty."

As I alluded to you previously, Father Time waits for no one and before you realize, it will be time to deliver one final salute and relinquish your distinguished title.

Afterwards, however, you will still be mom, dad, husband, wife, brother or sister.

Those titles mean more to me than any thing I can imagine.