CHARLESTON AFB, S.C. –
Team Charleston: Congratulations on a clean sweep in the Unit Compliance, Emergency Management, Aircrew Standardization and Evaluation,and Logistics Standardization and Evaluation Program inspections! With high marks across the board, each of you contributed immensely and validated our wing's capability! As you will note in a separate article in this week's paper, the number of recognized outstanding performers and teams is truly amazing!
I have served for 20 years and sat through many inspection outbriefs. I have never seen what happened in the 437th and 315th Airlift Wing combined LSEP -- every single category was rated outstanding. As we celebrate the departure of more than 150 inspectors and prepare for the holiday weekend, I remind each of you to think about safety as you are enjoying all the outdoor opportunities in the Lowcountry and the great state of South Carolina. Please plan your trips, think about limitations, protect yourself from known threats (sun, dehydration, fatigue, alcohol) and look out for each other.
The holiday weekend also carries a special meaning and purpose, Memorial Day. Our nation has honored Memorial Day since 1868, then a tribute to the fallen during the Civil War and now a day with great personal intimacy to those of us that serve. I ask that you reflect on those that have sacrificed everything to protect the freedom we enjoy so dearly. This is a weekend to wear your uniform with great pride and respect.
In addition to the inspection achievements this week, I had the privilege to visit with many of our Airmen and civilians that make Charleston the place to be. Examples of exceptional performance were everywhere. Staff Sgt. Antonio Hudson is providing outstanding support in the 437th Force Support Squadron. Senior Airman Jamila Davis has our flight records in perfect order and Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Kindernay is training our next generation of leaders in the 437th Operation Support Squadron aviation resource management office. In our 437th Medical Group, Staff Sgts. Jillian Marino and LaTishia Hall are taking care of Airmen in a great manner. Airman 1st Class Daniel Crecelius is helping fellow Airmen at mental health. I also had the pleasure to see Staff Sgts. Jessica Small and Devin Bermudez at several locations ensuring the accuracy of our medical supplies. Airman 1 Class Jessica Campbell has mastered the medical laboratory skills following 14 months of technical school. Master Sgt. Gregory Turner and Staff Sgt. Michael Tate from 437 OSS are providing the right survival skills for our flyers. Tech. Sgt. Jeffery Harper and Senior Airman Charles Schaffer were dedicated to maintenance safety on the flightline preparing C-17s for departure, even as lightning approached. No wonder we received an outstanding on the LSEP. Master Sgt. William Lesage and Mr. Troy Draughn represented the Air Force as community award nominees at the Charleston Salute to the Military. Senior Master Sgt. Clinton Harris and Tech. Sgt. Dante Roberts are leading our 437th Security Forces Squadron and keeping us safe. Staff Sgt. Todd O'Quinn, 437th Communications Squadron, holds the keys to our communication efforts that work so well. Staff Sgt. Angelique Devor is energetically engaged in and leading efforts in the 437th Logistic Readiness Squadron. Last but not least, 1st Lt. Tiffany Heline, 437 MDG, is ever vigilant supporting the many bioenvironmental tests, such as water quality, at Charleston AFB.
I'd also like to congratulate three of our Team Charleston members who received awards from the Federal Executive Association recently. Senior Master Sgt. Timothy T. Gibson, 437th Aerial Port Squadron, received the Outstanding Managerial/Executive award. Ms. Martha L. Hughett, 437th Civil Engineer Squadron, received the Outstanding Clerical/Administrative award and Mr. Raymond D. West, 437 CES, received an award for Outstanding Safety/Security.
Finally, I'd like to recognize the 16th Airlift Squadron for bringing families together at a Dining Out following their deployment.
Again, I want to thank each of you for your service. Be safe this weekend!