Commentaries

Andrews Symbolizes Freedom, Democracy
September 25, 2008 — While in command of the 316th Mission Support Group over these past 17 months, I am constantly reminded of how dynamic, vibrant and essential our installation is. This Air Force base, above all others, symbolizes to the world the power and might of the United States and the freedom and democracy our country represents. Home base to the President... MORE

The most important training you will ever receive
September 18, 2008 — Training is a topic that brings out mixed emotions for many. We all understand the importance of training as we fight and the desire to stay on the cutting edge. However, the list of annual training requirements is robust for most jobs. As a commander, I would be the first to admit that all training is not created equal. Some is clearly more... MORE

Taking care of our dorm residents
September 12, 2008 — One of the most exciting and anticipated expectations in a young Airman's career is living in the dormitories. It's this first encounter outside of basic training and technical school where Airmen get to truly have their own room and privacy! With our current economy, especially with gas prices as high as they are, living in the dorm is the best... MORE

Unforgettable mentoring
August 22, 2008 — I spent some time as an instructor pilot at Undergraduate Pilot Training at Columbus AFB, Miss. For those of you who have never spent time in northern Mississippi, there are many days where the low ceilings and heavy rain makes you wonder why the Air Force would ever put a pilot training base in that region. It was during one of these days when one... MORE

Fit to Fight
August 7, 2008 — The Air Force "Fit to Fight" program focuses on physical fitness to increase our preparedness to deploy and fight. I have adapted my personal view of "Fit to Fight" to include not only physical fitness, but also mental, emotional and spiritual fitness.Physical fitness includes a regular exercise program of aerobic fitness, muscular strength and... MORE

Commander says farewell and thanks
July 31, 2008 — Today marks my final day as the 316th Wing Commander and installation commander for Andrews Air Force Base. It will be several days of reflection as I drive west to Randolph Air Force Base but I am already filled with pride and thanks for what the 316th Wing and Team Andrews has accomplished these past 25 months. Andrews has always made its mark in... MORE

Airmen preparedness key in GWOT
July 24, 2008 — This month I took command of AFOSI 7th Field Investigations Squadron located on Andrews Air Force Base. The 7 FIS is responsible for providing criminal, fraud, and counterintelligence investigative and operational capabilities to support wings and Airmen at Andrews and Bolling Air Force Bases, the Pentagon, and Fort Meade. While we conduct our... MORE

Air Force Smart Operations, A Journey of Excellence
July 16, 2008 — Having served in our wonderful Air Force for quite a while, I realize "smart operations" are not new buzzwords, but a system that can transform an entire enterprise. It is about intelligent changes in how we think and operate in times of rapid transformation, resulting in an environment where Airmen aspire to improve daily operations by eliminating... MORE

'Disipline is the soul of an Army'
July 11, 2008 — Then-Colonel George Washington, Commander-in-Chief of Virginia Forces, said "Discipline is the soul of an Army." This piece of wisdom is as true today as it was in 1757. In order to establish discipline, commanders and leaders must cultivate an environment of respect so that their subordinates have confidence in them. The guidance for enforcement... MORE

Transforming Andrews’ Landscape
July 3, 2008 — It seems everywhere you look on Andrews lately, something is under construction, major renovation, or extensive repair. In concert with several other agencies on base, on May 28, we provided the installation's combined leadership a comprehensive update on the major facility and infrastructure projects going on around the base. While the prospect of... MORE