379 AEW excellence

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- As my second week serving as the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing commander draws to a close, I am incredibly impressed with the exceptional level of performance I have seen and the professionals I have met across the base. Every 379 AEW Airman is totally focused on contributing to the wing's core mission of conducting the full range of theater-wide combat air operations with power and precision. 

Over the last month and a half, the entire wing, group and squadron commander leadership team has completely swapped out. Despite these changes, we sustained our command operations tempo at the highest levels. We met our combat taskings by staying focused on our mission -- we are exceptional Airmen providing responsive, flexible and accurate combat airpower across the theater. 

The mission statement starts with "exceptional Airmen" because I want our newest arrivals to understand that from day one they are key members of the 379 AEW and have joined a team that sets high standards and expectations with a total dedication to compliance, discipline and accountability. To sustain combat excellence, we need every Airman in the wing on their "A game" from the first time they step to their workspace, guard post, the flight line or the aircraft until they arrive back at home station with the mission complete. 

To ensure mission success, we must place a clear mark on the wall that builds on past accomplishments and provides a flight plan for the future. That mark on the wall -- my leadership vector -- is simple ... all you need to remember is we must take care of: 

- The mission first! 
- Each other to build trust and an unbeatable team
- Yourself with a personal commitment to be the best 

In the coming weeks I'll expand on each of the vectors, but simply put: job #1 is combat capability -- we must accomplish the mission with power and precision; job #2 is to take care of each other 24/7 and job #3 is a personal commitment to be the best while seeking opportunities for personal and professional wellness and growth. 

Despite the fast pace, we must stay on this vector to ensure success and we can only do this with a team effort built upon our talented individuals expertise and energy. It won't be easy but I know the wing is ready to meet the challenges ahead -- we have to because our joint forces and coalition partners in the theater are counting on us to be there. 

Let me close by saying, it is a privilege to be a part of this superb, warfighting wing and I look forward to serving with all of you in the days and months ahead. I am already convinced that you define combat excellence with POWER and PRECISION!