Top Priority: Our People

  • Published
  • By Commentary by Col Thomas Sharpy
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Commander
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  I would first like to say that I am humbled to be the commander of the awesome men and women at the 92nd Air Refueling Wing.

Over the next few weeks, I would like to share some insight into my priorities for the wing: People, Mission, Family and Community - including Smart Operations and Safety.

My first priority is you. As you know, the mission does not happen unless our team makes it happen.

Your personal and professional development is vital to mission success, so wing leadership is implementing several programs designed to enhance your warrior mentality.

To better serve the members of our team, you may start to notice several quality of life upgrades around the base - from the fitness center and the outdoor track to the enlisted development center.

Our fitness center will house new equipment to help Fairchild's warriors sharpen their swords. Since physical fitness is an essential asset to Airmen development you will also soon notice the outdoor track to be lit for early morning or late night fitness activities.

Additionally, new computer stations will be fired up in the enlisted development center to further develop our already-strong enlisted force.

I also pledge to help develop your professional skills. As you climb the leadership ladder, it is paramount you receive top-notch training that prepares you for additional responsibility. For example, as new senior NCOs, I believe an orientation course is vital for professional development. Upon completing the course, you will be celebrated for a job well done at a Senior NCO induction banquet.

That said, the development tool that I am most pleased to be a part of is the mentoring program. Every Friday at 4 p.m. Chief Sikora and I are available at Club Fairchild in an informal environment to talk to you one-on-one. I have spent the past couple of months spending time with Airmen at the club, and nothing motivates me more than talking to the folks with boots on the ground - executing the mission every day.

You are the Air Force's greatest strength and our advantage in America's defense. You Professional Expeditionary Airmen never cease to amaze me with your dedication and perseverance, and for this - you are Priority #1.