Celebrate family, celebrate Fairchild Published Dec. 18, 2012 By Col. Brian Newberry 92nd Air Refueling Wing Commander Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. -- This is one of my favorite times of the year. The holidays give us a chance to celebrate our friendships and families, reflect on the year behind us, and recharge to meet tomorrow with a smile and a drive to succeed. Next year promises to be bright for Team Fairchild, very bright. Skyfest 2013 returns in May. In addition to hosting thousands of citizens of the Inland Northwest anxious to see airpower on display, we have the privilege to host our very own Air Force Thunderbirds, who always give an amazing performance, demonstrating how we fly, fight and win every day. It will be the first time the air show will be linked to the community's Lilac celebration since the late 1990s. No doubt it will be a busy time for all, but we will be the talk of the region as we celebrate Fairchild excellence with our community partners. Over the holidays, I am reminded of how my family inspires me and keeps me grounded. This holiday season, I am inspired and motivated by you, Team Fairchild. I look forward to seeing you all in 2013 ready to continue fueling the fight, to continue fueling freedom, to continue defending freedom. It will be a year of innovation for us spurred by your imagination - we are the world's greatest Air Force, driven by our Airmen, powered by innovation! As always, be safe and fly safe. Be especially careful on our wintery roads, make responsible choices in regards to alcohol, and be good wingmen to each other 24/7. There is a quote in our spectacular fitness center that reads "there are no traffic jams on the extra mile..." Well, Team Fairchild, you have gone the extra mile in 2012 and consequently, we lead the way in the AMC formation. I am proud to serve with you. Very proud. Thank you for staying First Class ... from my family to you and yours, happy holidays!