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Bagram Airmen reminded to finish strong

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rachel Martinez
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan --  As Air and Space Expeditionary Force Rotation Three and Four winds down Airmen here were reminded to "finish strong."

The Finish Strong briefing is targeted toward Airmen within six weeks of redeploying. During these last few weeks of a deployment disciplinary and mishap rates historically rise. The briefing is part of a series of reminders that aims to combat that.

"The ultimate goal of these briefings is a smooth transition process...prevention of incidents and preservation of combat assets -- both people and equipment -- so we can support the coalition ground forces and Operation Enduring Freedom," said Lt. Col. Dave Allen, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing chief of safety.

According to Colonel Allen, four factors contribute to the rise in mishaps - complacency, overconfidence, distractions and taking shortcuts. Mishaps typically include minor injuries and damage to equipment, however anything could happen.

"I ask you to keep focused. We still have a lot that needs to get done," Brig. Gen. Mike Holmes, 455th AEW commander, told Airmen during the briefing. "Go forth and finish strong. Finish strong so that the new group can start right."