PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIR RESERVE STATION, Pa. -- Although I knew my tour as commander of the 911th Airlift Wing would one day end, that doesn't make it any easier to say good-bye.
This tour has been the honor of my almost 33-year career - an honor I owe to all the Steel Airmen of Pittsburgh. You have done everything asked of you by your leadership, the Air Force, and your country...and then some! All that you have accomplished in the last three and a half years is nothing short of miraculous.
I look forward to watching you tackle and overcome all the challenges that yet await this wing.
The message I want to leave you all with is: take care. I want each of you to know that means more than meets the eye.
First, it means to take care of yourselves. Stay focused, stay balanced, and stay true.
Second, it means to take care of each other. There is no higher calling than to be a good wingman.
Finally, if means to take care of the mission. You always have, and I know you always will.
As Diana and I leave to tackle our next challenge, we wish all of you and your families the best! Never ever forget that you are the mission!!
Take care, Col V