ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Air Force District of Washington, commander Today I took command of the Air Force District of Washington. My wife Sharon and I would like to thank everyone for the great welcome. I am thrilled for the opportunity to command AFDW and build upon your accomplishments under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Robert L. Smolen.
I am eager to get out and meet with you over the next few weeks. In the meantime, I wanted to express a few thoughts. AFDW is my fifth command tour. My previous command experience validates my view that the heart and soul of any unit is firmly rooted in its people -- the business of the Air Force is uniquely a human endeavor. Success requires professional military and civilian Airmen focused by the mission.
The AFDW mission is clear and simple. It includes:
* Superior service - always.
* Support to civilian authority - when asked.
* Effective contingency response - when needed.
A professional Airman:
* Embraces integrity, service before self and excellence in all endeavors.
* Trusts leadership, respects their peers and mentors their subordinates.
* Is loyal, well-trained and confident.
* Is able to subordinate individual aspirations to team goals.
* Is a leader and follower, who maintains mission focus and is dedicated to making our Air Force better, day by day.
To command is a great honor and a privilege and I want you to know that this is a huge moment for me. I am humbled by this opportunity and the shear magnitude of the responsibility.
I pledge my best effort to live up to your expectations. In turn, I will ask you to live up to mine. The Air Force District of Washington has built a lasting legacy as a compliment to the command of General Smolen; we all have our responsibilities and together we will continue that legacy of accomplishment.
I look forward to working with you. Thanks!