Command chief impressed with Travis Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Shaun Emery
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  So often Air Mobility Command senior leadership passes through Travis and doesn't have the opportunity to visit the Airmen that serve as the backbone to the base's mobility mission. 

Aware of that, Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Barron, Air Mobility Command command chief, made a special trip to visit the Airmen here and has impressed with Team Travis members and the way they accomplish their mission. 

"What impressed me the most was the attitude of the people here," he said. "Everyone I had the privilege of meeting had a great attitude, they were professional, motivated and proud of their contributions to our Air Force." 

Chief Barron pointed out that it wouldn't be possible without great leaders. 

"They're doing great work here," said Chief Barron. "It is a true symbol of leadership. The folks here are professional, courteous and that is truly a testament to good leadership; not just the wing commander but supervisors as well." 

Team Travis is made up of Airmen who have served more than 20 years as well as those with less than a year in service. And whether a person is looking to finish their time in the Air Force or continue their career, Chief Barron's recommendations work across the board. 

"Work hard," was Chief Barron's answer to what all Airmen should focus on. "Be proud of what you do and the fact that you decided to join our nation when we are a country at war, knowing your going to put in harms way. It's truly noble to be a member of the military, but at a time of war is something special and takes a special person." 

Chief Barron also said Airmen should take advantage of the benefits offered to military members, including education and the Thrift Savings Plan. 

When asked about those on the fence on the whether to stay in or get out, Chief Barron said that serving in the military is a personal choice. 

"Everyone has different needs, goals and limitations," he said. "Only you know what's going to work best for you and your family. Do your homework first, weigh the pros and cons and consult with your family. It takes a lot of commitment from both the individual and the family. If it comes down to choosing between military and family, by all means choose family." 

Taking care of the AMC family is the number one priority for AMC leadership and this year, said Chief Barron, the command is going to great lengths to ensure that is happening. 

"This year we've spent a record amount of money on dormitories, child development centers and fitness centers throughout the command," he said. "We are going to continue to raise the quality of life for our folks." 

According to Chief Barron, recognizing people is an important factor to an Airman's quality of life at work. 

"Our Airmen are extremely busy," he said. "Things are not going to slow down. 

Supervisors at all levels have to tell their people how much they're appreciated and how well they're doing. Airmen need to know they're making a difference. It's up to each and every one of us to ensure Airmen know that not only they are doing good job but they're appreciated and valued members of the team." 

Chief Barron said that it came as no surprise that Team Travis earned the AMC Commander-in-Chief Installation Excellence Award. 

"It was a great opportunity for me to be back at Travis," he said. "It is great seeing Airmen doing an outstanding job and it's obvious why they were selected for the CINC IEA award. I am confident Travis will do well at the next level. It's humbling, and an honor to be part of AMC and to wear the same uniform as members of Travis."