Travisolano—A True Partnership to Tribute

  • Published
  • By Elizabeth Schwan
  • 60th Director of Staff
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE.Calif. --  In a time where support from the American public is ever more vital for our Airmen, Soldiers, Seamen and Marines it humbles my heart to be a part of one of the most supportive military communities ever experienced--here in Solano County.

The support the seven cities of Solano provide Travis Air Force Base, its Airmen and partners, is remarkable. This partnership between the Air Base and county should be truly acknowledged for its benchmark practice of community relations. It takes thoughtfulness, care, and above all planning, concentrated efforts and action, to demonstrate devotion to a cause; and if the cause is supporting and taking care of our troops, Solano County has provided the means to take this to the greatest effect.

Travis Airmen live and breathe, side by the side, the community members of Fairfield, Suisun, Vacaville, Dixon, Benicia, Rio Vista, and Vallejo; they trust upon these people to welcome them into their communities, make them feel at home, often on a two-year or less rotation. To endless donations, dedications, and tributes during our farewell ceremonies for our frequent deployers; the welcome home celebrations to receive them back after six-month, sometimes year-long departures; the gracious open houses to dine and comfort the families of deployed Airmen; festive and special military appreciation nights; and populated meetings with high-level civic representation providing accountability and representation on key issues all the way to Capitol Hill, all clearly demonstrate how the bond between Travis and Solano is truly significant and matters to the livelihood of all affected.

Similarly, Travis Airmen reciprocate this passion and dedication. For example, in September 2010 during 'Travis Week,' the partnership was showcased without pride or prejudice--"Travis Salutes Solano" was the week's theme, and that they did. While Solano community leaders assisted in a weeklong of events including block parties, tours, and festivals, at times including the preparation of hotdogs and hamburgers for Travis family and friends, dedicated Airmen traveled out to assist with local air shows; they helped local organizations build homes for less fortunate citizens; and provided endless base visits and tours for community members.

Taking a look at mission, the Travis Airmen and community team of experts continue to master and develop their capabilities in security, law enforcement, and emergency management practices, which are marked by incredible collaboration to battle the most enduring problems in their collective and respective societies.

The year 2010 has, no doubt, solidified this partnership and has also set the stage for an enduring relationship within and beyond the gates of Travis Air Force Base. Travis and Solano County have become a community of one. The partnership is so tightly knitted, one can say, Travis plus Solano, "Travisolano," is an appropriate term to capture this one-in-a-million, fantastic partnership.