CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Teamwork
Following on the heels of President Bush's visit here last week, I traveled to McChord Air Force Base to cheer on our 437th and 315th Airlift Wings as they competed in the Air Mobility Rodeo 2007 competition against 45 U.S. teams, representing the best of the best from each of their respective units.
Team members competed for individual and unit awards. I am proud to say they won trophies for Best C-17 Air Drop Aircrew, Best C-17 Maintenance Team and Best Aerial Refueling Team, all of which represented the combined efforts of both wings.
These men and women worked for months preparing for this competition and in doing so truly demonstrated the Air Force core values: "integrity first" -- being honest with others as well as with themselves, and doing what's right at all times -- qualities that were essential to being selected to represent Team Charleston; "service before self" -- putting in countless hours, training and honing their skills while still accomplishing the mission; "excellence in all we do" -- striving to be the best as they competed against the best.
Teamwork is the heart of Rodeo, and it comes as no surprise that the categories we excelled in were for our blended active-duty and Reserve teams. They work side-by-side as a team on a daily basis, almost seamlessly, getting our mission accomplished.
Besides the military member, the military family is a unique and important part of the team because they provide a large support mechanism at home -- spouses, children, extended family -- and that support helps them accomplish the mission.
During his visit here last week, President Bush spoke about the sacrifices military families make, the separations they endure and their constant worry about their loved ones. He said that by shouldering these burdens, our military families are serving the United States of America ... he expressed his and the nation's gratitude.
I too am grateful to our family members for supporting their loved ones as we continue our fight against the Global War on Terrorism. You are truly a crucial part of the team.
I would also like to give kudos to the key players who participated in the HUREVAC exercise Wednesday. This training is vital to ensure the base is prepared to react in the event of severe weather. I hope it served as a reminder that we all need to be prepared at home also. We are in the midst of hurricane season, so make sure you have all the supplies you need and double check your hurricane evacuation plans for yourself and your office to make sure you are completely ready for the worst. Also, please contact the families of our deployed members and make sure they are taken care of and prepared with a plan of action.
Lastly, I also want to congratulate the quarterly award winners for the second quarter. The competition at Charleston is very tough and all the nominees have represented their units extremely well through hard work and dedication. You should all be very proud of this accomplishment!
Team Charleston is made up of military members and families working together as one team to accomplish the mission.
Team Charleston ...Take the Fight to the Enemy!