New vice commander returns to Travis

  • Published
  • By Capt. Vanessa Hillman
  • 60th Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The 60th Air Mobility Wing welcomed a new vice commander to Travis July 7.
Col. Thomas Sharpy assumed the vice commander position for the wing and is looking forward to being back here at Travis.

"Coming back to Travis is like coming home," he said.
"This is where I grew up in the Air Force and where Lori and I committed ourselves to making it a career," commented Colonel Sharpy. "As we drove through the front gate and pulled into the Westwind Inn we were inspired by the tremendous improvements across the base. There is no doubt in my mind that Travis is the crown jewel of Air
Mobility Command and to be part of this incredible team is very exciting."
Colonel Sharpy's enthusiasm is very noticeable and he can't wait to put it into use.

"Already I have witnessed the key to what makes Team Travis so special…it is clearly the people. They are our most important resource. I look forward to working with them and helping us all to work smarter…not harder!"
Colonel Sharpy has high expectations for his tour here at Travis.
"It has always been my goal to take every organization that I have been apart of to the next level. I have already learned from Col. [Steve] Arquiette that he shares that same passion; it is going to be an awesome experience to work and learn under his leadership."

The key to taking the base to the next level, according to Colonel Sharpy, is by inspiring Airmen to take pride in what they do.
"I am a firm believer that each one of us plays a vital in our Air Force and taking it one step further, it is our Air Force. Once everyone understands that they share ownership it is my hope that they will stand a little taller and put forth that extra effort to make their Air Force a better place."

On looking to the future of Travis, Colonel Sharpy says that he sees many opportunities which could have historical impact.
"We are busier than we have ever been especially with privatization, C-17 bed down, Presidential Budget Decision 720, NSPS and the Global War on Terrorism. We are rewriting history and 20 years from now, you will look back and be proud to say that you were a part of it."

Overall, Colonel Sharpy is excited about being a part of the Travis Team.
"I have to pinch myself everyday, because I am so excited to be here at Travis and for the tremendous opportunity that the Air Force has given us…this is going to be fun!" Colonel Sharpy said.
Colonel Sharpy brings with him his wife Lori, 12-year-old son Dylan and 9-year-old Matthew, who was born here at David Grant USAF Medical Center.