CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Thanksgiving greetings! In this holiday season, Deb and I send our sincerest wishes to everyone -- active duty, Reserve, Guard, civilian and their families -- all those who make up Team Charleston. We are thankful for your commitment to our mission and to ensuring we continue to enjoy the freedoms we have.
My first focus area as a commander is on Airmen and their families. We have plenty to be thankful for, and this is the perfect time to express my gratitude to all of you for the things you do every day! To our commanders and chiefs, our first sergeants and frontline supervisors, I thank you for the care and concern you have for our people and our mission. To our families and friends, I thank you for your support and strength. We could not sustain our current tempo without your encouragement and thoughtfulness.
I'd like to again reiterate the importance of keeping safety as a priority during this holiday season, whether you are staying at home or driving to visit family and friends. Make sure you plan your driving route ahead of time. One of the most important steps you can take is to fasten your seatbelt. Don't risk your life or the lives of your family members by not buckling up. Take frequent breaks while on the road and, most importantly, make sure you are well rested and try to do most of your driving during daylight hours.
This is also a great opportunity to remind you that if you plan to drink this holiday season, plan ahead. Have a designated driver, call a cab or make arrangements ahead of time to stay where you are. Use 0-0-1-3 as a tool to moderate your alcohol intake. Don't be "That Guy" or "That Girl."
On the flip side of celebrating the holiday season is also loneliness, depression and sorrow. Suicide awareness is especially critical during this time of the year. Pay attention to your troops, friends and family members. This is everyone's responsibility -- supervisors, coworkers and Wingmen. The biggest stressors people face during the holidays are relationships, money, deployments and other family issues ... be aware and watch for signs and symptoms. I want to make sure everyone returns safe and sound.
We have many people deployed throughout the world and people who are continuing to deploy to various locations during the holidays. Stay connected to these folks. They are concerned about where they are going and what might happen when they get there. It is our job as commanders, supervisors, coworkers and friends to make sure our people get the support they need. Talk to them, ask about their concerns, take care of their families, and make sure these deployed people know you are thinking about them while they are gone. Taking care of your people should be one of your highest priorities.
To those already deployed and separated from loved ones during this special time of year, I send my heartfelt gratitude for your sacrifice. Your devoted commitment demonstrates everything that is great about America.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving and be safe.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!