Preparing for tomorrow's challenges

  • Published
  • By Col. Mark Dillon
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Thirty-eight years ago today the first C-5 Galaxy, tail number 68-0221, arrived at Travis Air Force Base. In the nearly four decades since, the Galaxy and her Travis Airmen have carried supplies and combat-ready units across the globe in the defense of our nation. 

Despite its mechanical challenges, the respected aircraft's ability to transport massive payloads over great distances makes it a valuable asset in our mobility weapon system inventory. Consequently, the Air Force is overhauling the C-5 fleet in a two-phased modernization initiative to extend the service of this airframe to the year 2040--an amazing 70 year lifespan. Phase I (avionics modernization) is already complete on all 

Travis C-5s and Phase II (new engines) is right around the corner.
Preparing for tomorrow's challenges requires an understanding and application of both old and new ideas. This ideal was recognized by President Harry Truman when he said, "If you want to learn a new idea, read an old book." By upgrading an "old idea" like the C-5, the new C-5M Super Galaxies will save the Air Force an estimated $20 billion, improve reliability and increase airlift capability for our war fighters. 

Just as important as modernizing our airlift weapons inventory is upgrading our "idea" inventory. In fact, during the previous fiscal year, Team Travis evaluated 17 current and future issues using Air Force Smart Operations 21. By blending portions of various process improvement approaches, AFSO21 improves productivity and efficiency. In addition to AFSO21, long-term planning - similar to playing chess versus checkers - also prepares us for tomorrow's challenges. Ultimately, efficiency measures and proactive planning ensures maximum resources and expertise are available to the combatant commanders--the war fighters. 

Airmen at all levels are applying maximum war fighting capability today and tomorrow. This week's anniversary celebrates the current C-5 and its great contributions. However, it is tomorrow's capability and our AFSO21 innovations that will keep Travis and our Air Force the envy of the world. 

Happy 38th Anniversary to our C-5 warriors and to Team Travis, continue your successful AFSO21 efforts. I look forward to seeing you in action. I truly appreciate you and your families' service.