CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, I have every confidence that we will do well during our operational readiness inspection. We have spent much time in preparation and the big show is only days away. I believe we're ready.
We have reviewed our procedures, assessed our resources and practiced our war-fighting capability. Now, it's up to us to do what we do best and bring home the gold. However, this time we will lift the hood and show the inspectors the engine that makes Team Charleston the machine known worldwide for excellence. As we give the inspectors a glimpse of the individual skill and collective effort that makes us such a successful team, I ask that you remain keenly focused on the details and on safety. These two areas can cause a misfire in even a well-oiled machine like ours. Therefore, we must be vigilant as we put our best foot forward.
As I mentioned earlier, I have complete confidence in your expertise and skill. Still, it is important to remember our positive attitude is also a part of what makes us such an exceptional team. When you spend time with the inspectors, show them the confidence and pride you have in our team and the work you do to support our mission. Be deliberate in your actions and receptive to recommendations for improvement.
Above all, do what you were trained to do.
You have reviewed and practiced; now it's time to demonstrate what you know. Keep your head in the fight, stay focused on your work and give attention to the details. When you give the details of each step in your process the attention they require, it produces results that reflect efficiency, effectiveness and quality. Mastering the details yields the result that sets us apart from other wings.
Whether it's an ORI or business as usual, sound safety practices are not optional. This aspect of what we do is not negotiable. When it comes to the use of personal protective equipment and the performance of our duties, we must work in a manner consistent with our safety training. The appropriate PPE must be used in every situation. That includes things like eye and ear protection, reflective belts, gloves, flashlights and steel-toe boots. When operating any type of vehicle, on or off the flightline, drive safely and use a hands-free device when talking on any cell phone. The message here is to avoid shortcuts; they cost more than they're worth.
I would also like to congratulate our August promotees. Your new stripe is a strong indication you are ready to accept greater responsibility. So prepare to embrace it because it's coming. As you continue to progress through the ranks, I hope you will find the real reward is not the stripe, but the responsibility that comes with it. I wish the best of luck to you all.
Finally, I extend congratulations to our quarterly and warrior award winners for April through June. Your performance last quarter was exceptional and this recognition is well deserved.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!