Chief's Column

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Wing's senior leadership has declared 2010 as the year of readiness. This means we are all trained, equipped and ready to take care of our nation's business.


Within your squadron, leadership will outline the way ahead to ensure you are mission ready. Coupled with squadron preparedness, will be the Wing's participation with the 6th AMW in an Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI) in January 2011. We will train together, exercise together and be inspected together. Many of the coming UTAs and annual tours will be dedicated to preparing for the ORI. This is our opportunity to demonstrate operational readiness - our #1 priority.

To some of us, this is not new. We've been there and done that. I ask you to take care of our younger airmen; those that are experiencing this process for the first time. Share with them that above all, safety comes first. Let's ensure our airmen understand that exercises like the mobility processing line ensures airmen eligible to deploy have all their affairs in order. Make sure they have a current ID card, complete the required training like self aid and buddy care, and have all the proper gear. Each person experienced with these exercises should use this as a teachable moment. Proudly share your knowledge.