CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Sept. 18, 2009, is the Air Force's 62nd birthday, and although our aircraft and technologies have changed since our service was formed, we still defend freedom wherever our nation needs us.
Please don't take this task lightly; just one week ago, we remembered the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and we're still engaged in a war to rid the world of terrorists.
Every Airman assigned to Team Charleston plays an important role in making sure we utilize our C-17s effectively to defend freedom, and being able to see firsthand our dedicated Airmen working together makes me proud to wear the Air Force uniform.
Col. John Wood, the 437th Airlift Wing commander, and I recently flew an overseas mission with members of the 16th Airlift Squadron, and I'd like to echo his praise of the professionalism displayed by everyone who made the mission a success.
It can be challenging at times to connect the dots and figure out how some of the things we're tasked to do help us defend freedom, but I truly believe just about everything we do plays an important role.
For example, 15 outstanding noncommissioned officers from Team Charleston graduated from the senior and noncommissioned academies within the last two weeks, and although they were not here helping with our airlift mission, they are now better prepared to lead.
I also met with Staff Sgt. Amy Lotspeich this week; she's the newly-elected president of our Airmen Against Drunk Driving program operated by Airmen who volunteer their off-duty time to be good wingmen. She is absolutely committed to making sure our Airmen get home safely because we cannot afford to lose a single person, and I appreciate her efforts and everyone else who volunteers with AADD.
Another example is maintaining proper fitness standards, which keeps us prepared to perform our duties. The Air Force just released the new fitness standards which take effect next year, and now is the time to start getting ready. Please note: You must meet the minimum standards in all four categories of the test (abdominal circumference, push-ups, sit-ups, and the run) and score above a 75. If you only meet the minimums for each category, you will not pass the test; you must score above the minimum in at least one category to score above 75.
Finally, since ours is an all-volunteer force, we must take care of our families so Americans continue to want to be a part of our great Air Force. The Air Force designated July 2009 through July 2010 as the Year of the Air Force Family, and according to Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley, "Significant emphasis will be placed on the four important areas of concern for Air Force families: affordable and available family housing, safe schools that challenge and prepare children for the future, accessible and quality medical care for Air Force families, and quality childcare."
Sixty-two years as a service is an impressive accomplishment, and I'm proud to be a part of our Air Force. I encourage you to attend the upcoming Air Force Ball, help honor our traditions and celebrate our service's contributions in the defense of freedom.