CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
There is an old adage that teamwork divides the tasks but multiplies the successes.
This week was another great opportunity to capture the amazing spirit of teamwork here at Charleston AFB. The 7th Annual Charleston AFB Triathlon that took place Aug. 22 was a phenomenal event for those who participated and helped make the event possible.
I have always found a great deal of satisfaction comes from giving your full effort to accomplishing a team goal. All the teams and individual participants put forth remarkable efforts and in the end, everyone had a great time.
Were it not for the coordinating efforts of Steve Parrish, the sports and fitness director, none of this would have been possible. Staff Sgt. Nicholas Ferretti, from the security forces squadron, led the safety effort resulting in no injuries or safety issues for this base-wide event.
Others including Master Sgts. Reginald Clement and Brenda McLain, Staff Sgt. Harvey Greenwood, from the force support squadron and Frank DeArgon from Outdoor Recreation went above and beyond to volunteer their time and efforts to make the triathlon a success. Chief Master Sgt. Benson Futrell, the 315th Airlift Wing command chief and Master Sgt. Shawn McKeen also made valuable inputs and contributions to round out support. The Fitness Center staff and countless volunteers pulled off one of the most successful and enjoyable events I have participated in here at Charleston AFB.
On Wednesday at wing stand-up, we praised the efforts and accomplishments of
Master Sgt. Scot Borgerding, Staff Sgt. Kasi Fox, Senior Airman Luke Braun, Tammy Wyas, Tom Walden, Jeffrey Morey and Louis Wong, all of whom received wing commander coins for their outstanding work in the Information Assurance Assessment and Assistance Program review. They were personally recognized for their outstanding performance by the Headquarters Air Mobility Command inspectors.
I also had the opportunity to visit the flightline where Tech. Sgt. Dave Kimberly, Senior Airmen Scott Skinner and Manuel Chacon, from the 15th Airlift Squadron, and Bobby Robinson, Senior Airmen Joshua Humble and Richard Babb and Airman Stephen Harper, among many others from the 437th Aerial Port Squadron worked tirelessly to validate loading procedures and certification for a 76,000 pound U.S. Navy Riverine Command Boat to be loaded onto a C-17. Working through the hottest part of the day, these Airmen worked tirelessly to validate an Air Force-wide plan for future Riverine movements. It was awe-inspiring to watch as they tackled each challenge this complex upload threw at them.
Next Friday's "Family Day" marks the kick off of the Labor Day weekend. The weekend also marks the end of the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign. Many of us will be traveling some distance to celebrate with friends and family. Please take the time and make the effort to put safety at the forefront of your weekend activities.
Traditionally, Labor Day weekend marks a high point in off-duty accidents and mishaps. Alcohol and motor vehicles of any type don't mix. Plan your trips with plenty of rest stops and give yourself the time to make it home safely. Remember the big three - safety first, wear your seatbelt and don't drink and drive. We need everyone back on the team on Sept. 8.