Kudos Team Travis for a job well done

  • Published
  • By Col. Steve Arquiette
  • 60th AMW commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  As the Arquiette Family settles into our new home, a new job and a new environment, we would like to again thank everyone from Team Travis for such a warm welcome. Due to everyone’s help, our transition to Travis has been extremely smooth. Last week’s string of events surrounding the change of command and the visit by General and Mrs. McNabb could not have gone any better, and we have quickly learned that Team Travis’ professionals perform magnificently in our dynamic arena that we call home. 

Please help me in personally thanking our protocol professionals and Lt. Col. Ignacio Alvarez, 60th Communications Squadron commander, for doing such a wonderful job planning and running the visit by our Air Mobility Command commander, General McNabb. 2nd Lt. Lindsey Hahn, 60th AMW public affairs deputy chief, did a great job as the project officer for Mrs. Linda McNabb’s visit. Lt. Col. Glen Savory, 60th Contracting Squadron commander, and his change-of-command team could not have executed a more perfect ceremony; both Maj. Gen. Hawkins and I were extremely impressed! Both events went extremely well and all involved were wowed. Thank you to everyone who played a role in these successful events! 

Although we went from rain to shine rather quickly, it is apparent that summer is just around the corner. Memorial Day is May 29, a day that we remember all the men and women in uniform who have paid the ultimate price to preserve the freedoms that make ours the greatest nation in the world. It is a time where we reflect on the men and women who valiantly fought for the freedoms we, as Americans, enjoy today. So, while you are getting your picnics together or readying yourself for a day at the lake, please take a moment and remember all those who have gone before us in the service of our country. Also, please take time to reflect and thank those who are currently overseas, many in harms way; they are protecting our freedoms at this very moment. 

In addition to ensuring we never forget those who have gone before us in the service of our country, Memorial Day is also associated with the first day of summer. While this means picnics, swimming and outdoor activities, it also means the 101 Critical Days of Summer is also here. Over the last five years, the Air Force has lost an average of 21 Air Force members during the 101 Critical Days of Summer. This year my goal is to make it through this dangerous period without losing anyone of you or your family members. To accomplish this, I really need your help! As you know, Safety is my No. 1 priority — it will not be compromised no matter how busy our days get. Please watch out for yourself, your Wingman and your family whether you are on the job or out having fun doing the great variety of recreational activities we can enjoy. Keep safety at the forefront of your minds at all times! 

Team Travis has had a busy couple of weeks, and I thank you for all of your superb efforts that continue to be recognized with Air Force and Air Mobility Command-level awards. We’re “America’s First Choice” for obvious reasons! Please continue to take care of each other while you’re working hard and be sure to have some fun along the way!