Teamwork wins today’s fight

  • Published
  • By Col. Mark Dillon
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The message from our Chief of Staff is clear and right on target ..."It doesn't matter what discipline you are in, what you have or what specialty you share--everybody matters; everybody contributes." To paraphrase Gen. Schwartz, teamwork is essential to winning today's fight. 

Travis mobility warriors continuously exemplify teamwork in support of the Global War on Terror. All of the installation's AFSCs--sustainers, maintainers, fliers and medics to name a few--are focused on sustaining the air bridge (long-range delivery of supplies by means of airlift and air refueling). Regardless of your proximity to the weapon systems, we all contribute to the air mobility mission and success depends on the efforts of the entire group. 

The air bridge's flexibility is essential to the expeditionary nature of today's military. Over the course of the past fiscal year, our team delivered 49,348 cargo tons, 42,114 passengers, and millions of gallons of fuel to the combatant commander's via the air bridge. It is no surprise that we exceeded the previous year's totals, as excellent service is often rewarded with increased demand. Team Travis' steadfast customer service is why we are America's first choice. 

The Army and Marines cannot win the fight alone. Partnering with our sister services and coalition forces is required to defeat terrorism. During this current land battle, our partners have recognized Air Force precision and reliability, resulting in the expansion of battlefield roles for our personnel. It is not difficult to understand why Airmen are in high demand. 

One example of how your hard work and dedication provides precision and reliability is intratheater air operations. In doing so, mission essential supplies are routinely brought directly to the war-fighter thereby reducing the number of convoys, and ultimately, keeping convoy personnel out of harms way. Fortunately when casualties do occur, wounded warriors receive timely, lifesaving treatment as a result of Team Travis medical, airlift and often air refueling missions. Across the spectrum of operations, your reliable actions are helping to win the battles in Iraq and Afghanistan. 

Our Service's priorities were recently expanded to include the reinvigoration of the nuclear enterprise and reclamation of acquisition excellence. Many of you have sacrificed much, and you and your families will continue to be called upon to defend freedom. 

Our nation cannot thank you enough for the sacrifice you and your families make. I am truly honored to serve with great Airmen who work so well as a team to make precision and reliability a reality each day.