Leave program gives Airmen recharge

  • Published
  • By Col. Steve Arquiette
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  We are one month shy of the five year anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. On that day, our lives as Americans and as Airmen changed forever. 

Today, we are working longer hours, deploying for extended periods in support of the Global War on Terrorism and continuously protecting the lives and freedoms of American citizens. Each and every one of us should be proud of the significant contributions that we have made in keeping our country safe; we are making a difference. 

Last week's uncovering of the terrorist plot to blow up planes transiting from the United Kingdom to the United States is a prime example of these successful efforts. The war is not over but our efforts and the efforts of many other government agencies are truly making an impact. 

Our country is asking a lot from us and we always come through, but we must remember to take care of ourselves and our families to ensure we maintain balance.
I recently took some leave to spend time with my family and recharge. I took this personal time and I knew that while I was gone the mission would continue to be met by the many incredible Airmen of Team Travis. Just like everyone else who works at Travis I have a demanding schedule, but I knew that if I didn't take time to maintain balance, my overall productivity would diminish. 

Many of us have a tendency to get so involved in our work, that we forget to take a step back and take time for ourselves and before we know it, we are completely exhausted.
Your wingman, your family and your Air Force needs you to be rested in order to execute your part in our mission. 

As wingman it is our responsibility to look out for our fellow Airman and ensure that they are keeping proper balance in their lives as well. I encourage supervisors to be supportive of our leave program and afford maximum opportunities for those in need of their well-deserved rest, unless it will negatively impact our mission requirements. The benefits of a balanced Airman far out weigh the short-term impact of an empty desk. 

The fiscal year will soon come to a close; please check on your subordinates leave balance. If it looks as though an individual has a use or lose leave balance, sit down with them and come up with a plan to use the leave and then remind them that leave should be used throughout the year. 

We can have the best aircraft and the best facilities, but without people with the proper balance our mission cannot be done. Put your wingman first at all times. Whether it is watching out for their safety or granting them leave, take care of your people, and I guarantee the mission will be met.
BE PROUD! BE SAFE!