2006 was an incredible year for Team Travis Published Dec. 14, 2006 By Chief Master Sgt. Michael Williams 60th Air Mobility Wing command chief TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- This is the last opportunity I'll have to converse with you before the New Year. We were extremely busy in this year and despite the huge turnover in wing leadership and the new innovative ideas we delivered unto you, 2006 was a great year for America's First Choice, "Team Travis." As we approach 2007, the wing leadership stands ready to roll up our sleeves and tackle the many challenges Team Travis are sure to face in the upcoming year. As I previously stated, 2006 was an incredible year for us; however, a great deal remains to be accomplished. The landscape of our Air and Space Force is definitely transforming. As most of us know, this isn't the first time we've witnessed change and it certainly will not be our last. Yet, the one variable that guided us through the evolution of our past is the same variable that will see us through this time of transformation, "Leadership!" The principles or tenants of leadership are timeless. Leadership can be defined in a multitude of diverse ways. Nevertheless, the principles of leadership are truly the same and remain as such throughout time. For example: the leadership Col. Joshua Chamberlin exhibited in the Civil War during the infamous battle on Little Round Top is the same as we employ today. Colonel Chamberlin inspired his men to defend their position when the hope of success was bleak at the very best. Colonel Chamberlin maneuvered up and down the line motivating and shouting encouragement to his men. Side by side he stood with them. Out of ammo, they affixed their bayonets, charged and defeated the enemy. That day on Little Round Top, those men fought for Colonel Chamberlin because of the leadership he delivered and the belief they had in him because of the appreciation and value he placed upon each man. Today, motivating, inspiring and appreciation for your people are as much apart of leadership as they were on Little Round Top. But somehow we fall short, at times, of recognizing the value of our Airmen. It's evident in the number of underage drinking incidents, DUIs, non-judicial punishment administered and a multitude of other metrics. The year 2006 was fantastic, but not because of the aircraft, or equipment, but it was fantastic because of the people. Let's make 2007 an even better year; focus on taking care of our Airmen, making the tough calls and being a great wingman. I realize taking care of the people is becoming more and more difficult. Keeping in mind that human beings are our most precious resource and they come in many different forms, but they all matter. It's our job to protect them, keep them safe and develop them, as they will be the next generation of leaders. Good old fashion face to face leadership is what our people thirst for...we owe it to them, their families and this great nation ours. So enjoy the rest of 2006 be safe, make responsible choices and let's make 2007 an even better year.