Commentary: Colonel Hanson bids farewell to Fairchild Published May 21, 2007 By Col. Scott Hanson 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- It has been my honor and privilege to serve as commander of this outstanding wing for nearly two years. I have been proud to serve every day. To be a commander while our nation is at war is a tremendous responsibility, but it's also a tremendous honor. To see our Airmen out there every day providing support for the Global War on Terrorism is phenomenal. Fairchild Professional Expeditionary Airmen provide air power and combat support literally all around the globe. In fact, since I took command July 7, 2005, this wing has flown 38,000 hours, off-loaded more than 285 million pounds of fuel, and deployed more than 2,000 Airmen to 51 countries around the globe in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. We have won countless awards, including seven at the Air Force level and 69 at the command level. This is indicative of our Culture of Excellence. I want to thank you, the men and women of Fairchild, for your service and sacrifice. I salute you for a job well done. Together we have accomplished much. One of our greatest accomplishments has been the creation of Air Mobility Command's first Expeditionary Airman's Center of Excellence. As a one-stop shop for the management of all Air Expeditionary Force processes, it provides world-class support for our deployers and redeployers. Not only that, the ACE is about taking care of families whose loved ones are returning from war, streamlining the reunion and reintegration process. Perhaps what I will miss the most about Fairchild is the hospitality of Spokane and the surrounding communities, which have embraced our Airmen with open arms. Organizations like Operation Spokane Heroes, Forward Fairchild, and the Greater Spokane Incorporated Armed Services Committee exemplify that commitment. I cannot say enough about the tremendous community support Fairchild receives from the Spokane area. We are truly part of a community of patriots here in the Inland Northwest. That support and commitment was recognized this spring as Spokane was awarded the prestigious Abilene Trophy, bestowed on the town that provides the best support to an AMC unit. I congratulate the Lilac City and thank you for your tremendous support. Finally, to the men and women of Team Fairchild, thank you for a wonderful two years. Your incoming wing commander, Col. Thomas Sharpy, is an outstanding air mobility officer and a tremendous leader. The wing is in good hands. Stay safe this summer and be a good Wingman. The Air Force and your country are depending on you. Team Fairchild: Professional Expeditionary Airmen!