Fourth down and goal

  • Published
  • By Col. Albert V. Lupenski
  • 349th Operations Group commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Team ... we use this word often. We use the term "Team Travis" to describe the relationship with all the partners in the base community, but what does it really mean? 

Let's use an analogy. I know many are football fans so here is the comparison. 

As with any football team, you need a good offense, you have to score points. On our team, Operations Group is the offense. In order for the offense to stay on the field scoring points, the defense has to keep them out there; they have to stop the opponent's offense. 

On our team, Maintenance Group is the defense. They keep the aircraft running and available and keep Operations Group on the field of play. 

We all know that special teams have an important role as well. A poor punt or missed field goal can be the deciding factor in a game. Our special teams element is Mission Support. They have all the required skills to keep the mission moving. 

Just as a football team needs healthy players, we need healthy Airman. A top-notch medical staff is imperative to a football team's success. In that way, our medical staff is the Medical Group. They keep each and every one of us healthy and in the game. 

Let's not forget the coaching staff: these are our commanders. They keep us motivated, inspired and focused on the fight. Then there are the fans, they are the reason why the team plays. Our fans are citizens of the United States of America. We must never forget those for whom we fight. 

All parts of the team need to be in sync. You can't win with just a good offense or defense. This is what makes true champions. It is the same for our Team Travis. Each one of us has an essential role on the championship team. 

We have a big game on the horizon: the Operational Readiness Inspection. We have been practicing and have been improving, and I'm confident we're going to peak at the right time as we continue to strive for perfection. Our hard work and preparation will ensure that we not only succeed in the ORI, but that we are "truly" ready to win the big fight. As Coach Lou Holtz once said, "No one has ever drowned in sweat."