Thursday, December 18, 2008

VIEW FROM TOP>>Happy Holidays, get some rest!

By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr.
19th Airlift Wing commander

Congratulations to Lt. Col. Paul Stephenson who was presented with a Bronze Star Medal on Monday. Colonel Stephenson was the senior advisor and commander of the 370th Air Expeditionary Advisory Group in Iraq. While there he mentored over 130 Iraqi officers and warrant officers on all aspects of operations, training, maintenance, force protection and logistical support during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Job well done!

I encourage everyone to enjoy some time off these next few weeks – it is well deserved. We all work hard every day to make sure the mission gets done and done safely here at The Rock and around the world. Throughout the year our nation trusted us to execute one of its most valuable and vital capabilities – Combat Airlift. We did not let her down. We delivered peerless Combat Airlift when and where it was needed whether at home or abroad. Next year holds brand new challenges; so get some rest, get recharged, and get ready to fly, fight and win in the New Year!

If you are traveling over the holidays, please remember to take your time and travel safely. Remember to properly check your vehicle and pack some warm clothes if driving in cold weather. Think about risk management when playing or working to not get hurt. Practice responsible alcohol use always. We want to ensure we start 2009 with all of you safe and sound!

Finally, while we’re resting and enjoying our family and friends over the holidays, let’s remember the 758 deployed members of Team Little Rock and their families. Our deployed members are proudly serving our nation around the world, enabling all of us to enjoy the upcoming holidays and all the freedoms and benefits of democracy here at home. To the families of our deployed Airmen, thank you for your service and sacrifices. To all of Team Little Rock, Kim and I wish you a most joyous holiday season.

Combat Airlift!

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