Deployment preparation is important

  • Published
  • By Col. Steve Arquiette
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The Air Force is now officially 60 years old! Thanks go out to everyone involved in making our 60th Anniversary Ball such a huge success. We can't thank Jay Leno enough for making the night so fun. Having never hosted an event of this size before, we did experience a few problems getting many of you seated without confusion. While we've learned a valuable lesson, I must pass along my sincerest apologies to those who experienced difficulties. The great effort applied in making this event so special was at times mind-boggling.

I'd also like to send out a special welcome to Brig. Gen. Don Lustig, Inspector General, Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill., and his team of inspectors visiting us. They will join us through our Operational Readiness Inspection and validate our newest KC-10 mission.

As I pack my bags and get ready to join the men and women deployed in Southwest Asia, I am excited to serve my deployment as the Deputy Director of Mobility Forces for Southwest Asia. I look forward to seeing some familiar faces while I am there -- seeing the Team Travis Airmen who are constantly in the fight. We are now almost six years into the Global War on Terrorism and while I recognize the strains of our military members and families, I also see the resolve and enthusiasm to accomplish our mission quickly, soundly, and most importantly safely.

Preparation for this deployment reminded me it was extremely important to stay constantly prepared. As we all do, I had to take a lot of time to get the necessary training I needed to serve my position effectively. We also need to prepare our families. We must have our home life ready so that we may focus on the task at hand rather than worrying about what's going on at home. Make sure you and your family sit down to figure out a financial plan, childcare plan and anything else you may need in the absence of the family member. The Airman and Family Readiness Center is ready to assist you and your family before, during and after your deployment. Overall, please don't be afraid to ask someone for help if you need it -- the person you ask probably knows how it feels!

In my absence, Col. G.I. Tuck, 60th Air Mobility Wing vice commander, will lead Team Travis and I have complete confidence the wing is in expert hands. Please continue to give him as much effort and commitment that you give me. See you in a few months!

BE PROUD! BE SAFE!