POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Happy New Year, welcome back and thank you for your outstanding work in 2006. Because of your motivation and remarkable mission accomplishment we can achieve even greater things in 2007. The 2nd Airlift Squadron, 43rd Maintenance Group, members of every group, including warfighting partners at Pope are contributing to the Global War on Terror right now. They didn't have the opportunity to enjoy the holiday with their families and loved ones but their sacrifices, and the sacrifices you will make during your deployments this year, are making a difference.

Many Americans have sacrificed for their country, and on Tuesday, our nation mourned the loss of President Gerald R. Ford. He proudly served as a navigator in the United States Navy during World War II. He attended preflight school in Chapel Hill and went on to earn the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with nine engagement stars. His legacy is his patriotism and distinguished service.

This Wednesday we had the pleasure of hosting Maj. Gen. James Hawkins, 18th Air Force Commander. I want to thank Maj. Dan Ganoza, 43rd Operations Support Squadron, Annie Niece, Capt. Leia Kuhns and 2nd Lt. Jeff Hannon, 43rd Airlift Wing Protocol Office, and 2nd Lt. Richard Davis, 43rd Communications Squadron, for their superb planning and execution. General Hawkins saw first hand what makes Pope such a special place: Every one of you, your motivation and our unique joint mission.
As we look ahead, our Unit Compliance Inspection will take place in one month and you will, without question, wow our inspectors just like you did for the Installation Excellence Award Team. You have been working incredibly hard during our wing exercises, and your efforts will pay off next month.

Remember, Be SAFE and ALWAYS be there for your WINGMAN.