CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, it has been an honor and privilege to have served as your wing commander during these last 23 months. Though it is hard to say goodbye to such a great community and Air Force family, I leave here knowing you are in good hands under the leadership of Col. John Wood. I have every confidence you will continue to be at the forefront in providing combat power around the world. You will carry on the very important mission of "Taking our Nation's Fight to the Enemy."
Since arriving here in June 2007, I have witnessed Team Charleston serve the U.S. and the far-reaching parts of the world in extraordinary ways. Our accomplishments as a team -- active duty, reserve, civilians, contractors, spouse and family members and local community -- are many, but awards and accomplishments are not what make Team Charleston special, it's the people. Time after time I've witnessed our people pulling together to make the mission happen.
I'm so proud of our operations group warriors. I've had the opportunity to fly with many of you. Across the board you have matured the C-17 weapon system to new heights and capabilities, far beyond what we even dreamed about when I was a young captain. I have enjoyed watching you operate; your skills and knowledge are so much better than I remember "back in the day," because you have continually built upon the successes of those who came before you. I've challenged you with some "old school" techniques and you have responded magnificently. Continue to challenge each other; that's our aviation tradition and it's what makes us better (and safer) every time we go fly. Great work.
I'm so proud of our maintenance warriors. You have such a difficult task, keeping the oldest operational C-17 fleet in the command running at near maximum capability every day. I've seen what you do and I'm continually amazed at your precision and reliability, no wonder the Air Force just recognized you as the best maintenance group in the Air Force.
I'm so proud of our mission support group warriors. You have such a difficult task and directly impact thousands of Charleston teammates every day. From protecting at the front gate, to the spouse of a deployed Airman needing help after a house fire, across the spectrum you embody mission, people and attitude.
I'm so proud of our medical professionals. You display warrior attitude with caring and compassion for your patients. You help keep us fit to fight and care for our loved ones and retirees too.
I'm so proud of our wing staff divisions. You are diverse and not always at the forefront of activity, but you are so very critical to making all the other missions happen. Thank you.
Team Charleston, I appreciate your enthusiasm, professionalism and dedication in support of our mission. You continue to serve our nation well, and with courage, precision and reliability. Deb, the boys and I are so very grateful to you for your service to our nation. Continue to take care of each other, that's what makes Charleston special and that's what we will always remember.