Fairchild’s wing commander holds all-calls, explains expectations

Col. Brian Newberry, the 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander, addresses members of Team Fairchild in the base theater during his first set of commander’s calls as the 92nd ARW commander Sept. 27, 2012 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. Newberry gave background information about himself and about how to support the mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Taylor Curry)

Wing/CC sets expectations at first commander's calls

Published Sept. 28, 2012
By Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Packed shoulder-to-shoulder and knee-to-knee, Fairchild Airmen filled the base theater as Col. Brian Newberry took to the stage for his first commander's calls here Sept. 27 to outline his expectations for the wing.

"I want for us to be the vanguard for other Air Mobility Command and tanker bases," Newberry said.

He took over as the 12th commander of the 92nd Air Refueling Wing Aug. 6. The colonel said he's met many people across the wing, and can't wait to meet as many as he can. Newberry's focus is on his people, saying if "we look out for Airmen and their families, the mission will get done."

"The key is to maintain a high level of accountability and standards, hold true to the core values, and put in an honest day's work each and every day," Newberry said. "Know what you need to do."

The colonel also challenged Team Fairchild to be good wingmen, specifically naming drunk driving, suicides and sexual assault as hindrances to the Air Force mission and core values. By completing the mission safely and effectively Fairchild will position itself as the premier tanker base in the Air Force, he said.

"Watch each other," Newberry said. "Safety is absolutely critical. We need to continue flying safely, on the ground and across the board."

In addition, the colonel emphasized the importance of teamwork.

"Our team is civilians and military members standing side-by-side. You are all American Airmen. Remember to 'Fuel the Fight and Fuel Freedom.' Keep 'Fairchild First Class' in all you do."