• Hold self to a higher standard in uniform

    The other day, as I was driving home from base, I noticed an individual driving erratically, speeding and running red lights-just an ordinary California driver, right? Sadly, I could clearly see that this individual was wearing an Air Force uniform. This incident made me contemplate a few questions

  • Empowering Airmanship within Travis' ranks

    More than a year ago, Master Sgt. Josh Philpott was an element chief in the 60th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. In spite of his "Magnum P.I." - like mustache, for which he still receives quite a few pokes, he's performed his duties with enthusiasm, loyalty and admiration. Epitomizing standards,

  • Keeping positive, can-do attitude

    One of the frequent conversations I have with people is helping them process their professional frustrations. Everywhere I go, the effects of sequestration, furloughs, downsizing, shrinking resources, reduced funding and longer days are taking a toll on the positive attitudes of folks.In 27 years, I

  • Check before you post

    According to the Air Force Social Media Guide, "Social media and social networking have evolved to become the primary communication methods used by today's Airmen, families and leaders." The Air Force views social media sites as positive tools, as long as they are used appropriately."By the nature

  • Operation delivers school supplies

    Volunteers handed out school supplies to more than 200 Travis families yesterday at the First Street Chapel. The supplies were donated through a drive held by U.S. Bank and the event was coordinated by Operation Homefront.Each year, Operation Homefront partners with multiple school districts to

  • Guards at south gate handle big traffic

    As the sun rises on California and Travis, the base's south gate is receiving its first visitors of the day.A glut of vehicles prepares for inspection with members of the 60th Security Forces Squadron before entering the base.The way the scene differs, however, from those entering Travis' main gate

  • Dog's best friend

    As Pepper leapt over a 5-foot fence to catch up with a "bad guy," his left hind paw was caught in one of the chain links. As the rest of his body catapulted forward, his paw remained snagged in the fence. When he wrangled his paw out of the fence, his leg hung distorted and lifeless. His handler

  • Every Golden Bear counts in challenging times

    On 23 April 1965, Military Air Transport Service Commander, Gen.l Howell Estes Jr. piloted the Air Force's first C-141A Starlifter from Lockheed's plant in Marietta, Ga., across the country to Travis AFB, Cali. A crowd of 3,500 welcomed the newest heavy airlifter that would come to be known as the

  • Golden Bear carries legacy

    The C-141 tail number Starlifter 63-8088, or Golden Bear, sits on display at "the bottom of the hill," what Travis locals refer to as the busy intersection of Burgan Blvd. and Travis Ave. This retired aircraft sits separated from the static displays of aircraft at the Heritage Center museum and is

  • AF energy official visits

    The deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for energy, Kevin Geiss, visited July 24 at Travis to learn about global mobility and the dynamic, diverse mission.Geiss is responsible for providing oversight and direction for all matters pertaining to the formulation, review and execution of plans,