Commentary

We are asked of a lot in the Air Force and the military. Especially in times like these when our ops tempo is at full throttle and we have to run on all six cylinders.

I am excited and humbled about the opportunity to command the outstanding men and women of the 435th Air Base Wing. During my tenure I look forward to carrying on the great work started by my predecessor, Brig. Gen. Rosanne Bailey.

Weather was the deciding factor. The jump was scheduled for 1 p.m. June 5 at the Iron Mike drop zone. The day started out with low clouds and a slight breeze from the north. Exactly 105 paratroopers boarded five C-130s and headed out over the English Channel enroute to St. Mère Eglise, France. The last 10 minutes of the 50-minute flight followed the same heading as 61 years prior. We were all very anxious.

Every commander who takes the flag knows that one day that flag must pass to the next commander.

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You may have read a recent Stars and Stripes letter to the editor discussing cutbacks of important Morale, Welfare and Recreation services. Let me start off by saying we couldn’t agree more with the reader about the vital role Services plays in building our military communities, boosting morale, and providing welfare and recreation for our military members, civilians, and their families. Wrapped into the letter, however, were misinformation and sensationalism on the extent and intent of the financial review of specific Services programs. Here are the facts:

Last Memorial Day weekend, I had the good fortune of being on temporary duty in Washington, D.C., and in attendance at the dedication of the National World War II Memorial. The memorial was built to honor the 16 million veterans who served during World War II and the 400,000 who died fighting for our country.