CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, what a great way to start this past weekend by ending a 24-hour observance of Wingman Day with numerous events designed for information sharing, teambuilding, and bonding with your wingman.
A special thank you to Bob Beres, S.C. State Trooper, for his series of presentations highlighting the dangers of drinking and driving and the impact it has on the families of victims killed in car accidents involving drivers who made the decision to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking. One wrong decision can truly have life-long and far-reaching consequences, and Trooper Bares reinforced that in a very realistic way.
Drinking irresponsibly can also have deadly consequences for you. If you have not already done so, please make the time to watch That Guy, a play currently being presented at the base theater. This play is mandatory for grades O-2 and E-4 and below. It depicts in a very powerful manner what can happen when you abuse your body through excessive drinking.
On a lighter note, this week we were honored to host Gen. and Mrs. Arthur Lichte, commander, Air Mobility Command, during his orientation visit here. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make their visit a great success. A special thank you to our outstanding community leaders who came out in force to show their support ... from our newest group of honorary commanders, who were just inducted into the 2007-2008 Honorary Commanders' Program, to our Advisory Council members who are virtually visible at every event.
We look forward to another great visit next week for Maj. Gen. and Mrs. James Hawkins, commander, 18th Air Force.
As we celebrate Veterans Day, we honor members of all military who have served and sacrificed in our fight for freedom. We pay tribute to those who serve today around the world as we wage the Global War on Terrorism. While honoring those who have served in the past, let's also keep our deployed Team Charleston members in our thoughts. Because of veterans past, we are free. Because of veterans present and future, we will remain free.
National Veterans Day celebrations honoring past and present members of all services are being observed during numerous events taking place throughout the Charleston area Nov. 8 to 11. Many events are free of charge and others at reduced prices. Please see Page 21 for additional information.
The Veterans Day parade, sponsored by the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, begins Sunday at 2 p.m. in downtown Charleston. Come out and show your support for the several base squadrons who are participating in the parade. There is also a flyover scheduled. To avoid the heavy downtown traffic, we will have four buses departing from the base exchange parking lot at noon to provide transportation for the participants and family members who would like to watch the parade. This is an excellent opportunity to see firsthand the community support we receive.
Finally, as we start the holiday weekend, please keep personal protection and safety at the forefront. Many of you will be visiting family. Remember, when you travel, plan your route there and back. Get plenty of rest before you start and travel during daylight hours if possible. It's worth an extra day of leave to arrive alive! Please enjoy your holiday weekend, and return safe and sound.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!