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  • The indefinite temporary: 2020 teaches lessons in gratitude, personal growth

    In April, as much of the world was cooped up indoors, waiting out the first, deadly batch of cases during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, I was binge watching every episode of the classic American TV show “M*A*S*H.”One of my favorite episodes follows the gang at the 4077th through 1951 in a

  • To win, we must be tough, disciplined

    With resource readiness trending to the positive, what about restoring personal readiness? Have any of us really considered what personal attributes we will need to win any fight in any environment? Have you ever asked yourself if you are truly prepared to forward deploy in the harshest of

  • Travis Toastmasters aids readiness

    I started attending Toastmasters meetings when I first arrived at Travis Air Force Base, California, a year and a half ago to improve my public speaking skills and get involved with other members of the base.When I first started Toastmasters, I felt the usual jitters every time I was asked to speak

  • Ready for this jelly

    This week kicked off the 75th anniversary celebration of the establishment of Travis Air Force Base.Looking back 75 years, specifically on this day, February 9, 1943, the Battle of Guadalcanal had been won and the Allies claimed their victory. When the U.S. Marines landed on the island in 1942, they

  • Turn your glove over

    “Turn your glove over.”I was tired. And slightly annoyed. For what seemed like the thousandth time, my dad threw the baseball to me as I practiced for the spring season my sixth grade year. My legs ached from squatting into the catcher’s position over and over again. My body dragged from jumping up

  • Be ready for future challenges

    Since I came to Travis in July 2016, I have seen our team accomplish so many good things.Whether it’s a massive undertaking like the airshow, the Unit Effectiveness Inspection Capstone or supporting relief efforts for four natural disasters in less than a month, we have always answered the call. I

  • We WILL rock you

    Last month, our Secretary of Defense, Retired Gen. James “Mad Dog” Mattis, released guidance to all Department of Defense personnel reminding us that we are our nation’s “department of war.”