JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
It is truly a privilege to serve beside you as we execute our critical missions across Joint Base Andrews and throughout the entire National Capitol Region. I’m impressed by your amazing achievements and your significant contributions to the National Defense Strategy here at America’s Airfield.
As we put 2020 behind us, it is not lost on me the impact that COVID-19 has had on each of us and our families. We have modified every aspect of our lives, and many of us have learned to be teachers while upholding our professional obligations; this has undoubtedly challenged our work-life balance. Despite these difficult circumstances, we have found a way to continue to execute the mission, but I know it hasn’t been easy! How we execute our missions, regardless of where you work, have had to be more deliberate and more purposeful in order to accomplish them safely.
I remain optimistic as we welcome in the New Year. Optimistic that we will continue to connect and collaborate as a team. Optimistic that we will embrace the new ways we have found to accomplish our mission. And optimistic we will continue to take pride in the privilege each of us has working alongside America’s Airmen. There is nothing we can’t accomplish when we work together as a team, and that includes beating this pandemic.
Furthermore, I want to emphatically state how fortunate I am to support and to work alongside each of the five wings and 80+ mission partners at Joint Base Andrews. The Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers, Marines and DoD Civilians whom we serve alongside are nothing short of impressive!
Finally, I want to address the lawless assault on our Nation’s Capitol on 6 Jan 2021. As members of the Joint Base Andrews’ team, we will continue to uphold the trust of the people we serve in an apolitical manner. With the upcoming Presidential Inauguration, we must remain professional, stay above the fray, and focus on our important mission of supporting the peaceful transition of power between our civilian leaders. This transition is the backbone of our democracy as we continue to protect and defend our Constitution.
Chief Ross and I thank you for your professionalism and steadfast commitment to our nation! Keep pressing excellence!