Farewell to commander

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Steven Wiggins
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing acting command chief
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Over the past few weeks I've had the high honor and privilege to serve as the 60th Air Mobility Wing's interim command chief. 

One of the many benefits of the position is to write a weekly commentary for our Tailwind. As I compose this article, I hear the distinctive noise of C-5 Galaxy engines roaring overhead as the aircraft negotiates what seems to be an endless amount of touch-and-go landings. This particular aircraft just happens to be piloted by our very own Brig. Gen. (sel) Dillon as he takes part in his fini-flight. It starts to sink in that this aviation tradition is part of the formal closure as we begin to bid farewell to a leader who has made a lasting mark on the men and women of the 60th Air Mobility Wing , Team Travis and our local community. 

Those that have met our commander quickly recognize what is important to him -- family, faith and Airmen! He's frequently heard reiterating that "Airmen are the most important weapon system we have" and "mission first, people always!" Another benefit of my current position is the opportunity to drive around the installation when Brig Gen (sel) Dillon personally recognizes our star performers. It is a thrill to witness his enthusiasm and listen as he boasts over the many accomplishments of our Airmen throughout the wing. 

During last week's wing Dorm of the Quarter inspection, I was inspired as he engaged each nominated Airman and personally praised them for the pride they took in their rooms. What was impressive to me is each Airman felt totally comfortable speaking with him, as if they knew him their entire life - that's what I call approachable! His trips across the installation afford him the opportunity to pay tribute to the many remarkable achievements of our people. 

Whether it was handing out graduation certificates at Airman Leadership School, Best in Command Trophies to our logistics readiness and port dawg squadrons, or greeting our newest Airmen weekly at the First Term Airman Center, I see that extra spring in his step when he gets a chance to interface with the Airmen he is so proud of. 

I recall when working at the squadron level, I found it very refreshing that a wing commander would take as much time as he did to understand the medical mission and advocate for the challenging needs of the organization. As many already know across the base, over the past year, he traveled weekly to visit each of our squadrons, whether it was our local tower controllers, defenders standing watch, our pediatricians who are stomping out childhood illness or personally receiving his 1-Level from a maintenance Airman on how to install a boom access panels. It's this up close and personal "full-contact leadership" that will inevitably define the Dillon legacy. 

To Mrs. Dillon (Sara), Jack, Luke and Charlie, on behalf of a grateful wing, thanks for selflessly sharing your husband/father so that he could work his magic in caring for his other 135,000 family members. So, as they say in German, Vielen Dank for the great ride Brig. Gen. (sel) Dillon und auf Wiedersehen Dillon family! Hey Ramstein, heads up, you've got a great one on short final!