TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- As the 70th anniversary of the 22nd Airlift Squadron approached I took a moment to reflect on my time with this accomplished unit. Over the course of assignments, more than half of my modest 13-year career has been served as a proud "Mulie". In fact, 10 years ago I was here celebrating the 22nd's last milestone. I found myself getting nostalgic about our successes and the life-long friendships that developed during the labor of making history.

In 2001, four months after arriving at Travis for my first flying assignment, I watched on television as several commercial airplanes were used in a horrific terrorist attack - an act we understood would define our flying purpose for years to come. I soon realized the insatiable appetite for airlift when a nation postures for conflict. With resolve, the 22nd unconditionally gave their all to support the war on terrorism and our lives in the C-5 were put into overdrive.

Those first two years, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, were mostly a compressed blur away from home - suitcases were rarely unpacked. And, although there was always a longing to be home with my family, I never felt deprived of support. The aircrew became somewhat of an adopted family, albeit for weeks at a time, helping each other endure the demands of a life on the road. Holidays, birthdays and celebrations were put on hold as delivering helicopters, pallets and equipment took precedence. At one point I recall the squadron only having half-dozen members left at home. You truly got the impression that everyone was in the fight.

The surge eventually receded but OEF demands remained high, and there were still other world-wide requirements that required support. We had the privilege to concurrently provide airlift for Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Odyssey Dawn, New Dawn and numerous other contingency, training, humanitarian and presidential-support missions. Our spectrum of involvement gave me a sense of pride in helping others and definitely developed my aviation abilities.

This summer I'll be moving on to another chapter in my military career, which is naturally met with excitement and sorrow. Regrettably I won't be here for the squadron's conversion to the C-5M, an improvement to the aircrafts' engines. But that upgrade ensures the 22nd will continue to support our global mission, providing countless others the pride and opportunity I've enjoyed, hopefully through the 80th anniversary, 90th and beyond.

Happy 70th anniversary Double Deuce and thank you for the memories.