WESTOVER AIR RESERVE BASE, Mass. -- As we begin our journey together, I want you to know that my
family and I were extremely impressed by the warm welcomes and awesome show of force during the change of
command ceremony on Sunday of the June UTA. Stepping into this role is a responsibility that I take seriously.
Commander of the Patriot Wing is one of the most important and humbling challenges of my life.
Before joining your ranks as your wing commander, Jennifer and I were a part of a great Reserve unit at Dover Air
Force Base, Delaware, and that was an important job with global impact. Westover is a completely new ball game, as you
are the premiere Reserve wing and certainly one of the biggest. For those who were unable to attend the change of
command, whether at home or busy at your jobs, I want to share with you some of the message imparted to the more than
1,000 Airmen who were volun-told to be there in formation! I discussed with them three simple things that will set the tone
for our journey together, as well as the dialogue I’d like to have with all of you as we work to continue the strong legacy
Westover has as “Leaders In Excellence.”
The theme of my remarks centered on three words. “Position, Place, and Time.” By “Position,” I mean that I feel
fortunate to be here and will continue the good stewardship of Westover along with its most important asset: the Airmen who
serve here.
On “Place,” I said that the place is Westover and you are the best at making the hard seem easy. All the accomplishments
and awards this wing has earned is truly an incredible service to our nation, and yet you all do your jobs with the ease that only
comes with the years of experience from truly professional Reservists. This base consistently comes out in front. What
that tells me is there is a lot of sweat and elbow grease flying around here, andvery little complaining about the important
work we do in defense of our country.
Regarding “Time,” now is the time to capitalize on our new C-5M’s. The time to prove Westover’s value to the nation is
right now. We have an awesome opportunity to demonstrate the capability of this plane and our ability to maximize its use. I
affirmed my commitment to honor and respect your time. I will do my best to ensure that you all are able effectively train, operate and receive the recognition you deserve as AFRC Airmen. That is my commitment to you, and Jennifer and I are proud to serve and be on the 439th team with you.
Keep up the good work, be Patriot Proud!