It’s Definitely the People! Published Dec. 7, 2006 By Col. John McDonald 43rd Airlift Wing Vice Commander POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Last week we celebrated Military Family Appreciation Week, and in my opinion, our celebration was tremendous. From the Family Fall Festival Nov. 14, through the discounted bowling prices Nov. 17, there was absolutely something for everyone. Having enjoyed the results of many people's contributions, I want to publicly acknowledge the incredible people who assured success. The central point of contact for the week was Chief Master Sgt. Helena Hall and Pope's Top 3 professionals; the "event" would not have been one, if the Top 3 had not accepted the challenge and excelled. But no one person, or single group, goes it alone at Team Pope. Chief Hall set up an executive steering committee made up of people from our great Services Squadron, our Integrated Delivery System agencies represented by Life Skills and the Airman & Family Readiness Center, Wing Safety, and the first sergeants. When the steering committee began talking up their ideas and it became increasingly evident the week's activities were going to be "world class," we all quickly realized external contributions would be necessary. These external contributors (people) were very much integral to Team Pope. I am very thankful for their generosity. Special thanks to the Pope Enlisted Spouses' Association, the Pope Officers' Spouse Club, 43rd Services Squadron Marketing Flight, the Pope Chief's Group, and squadron commanders and first sergeants from across the base for their donations that took us "over the top." Also, thanks to Pope's newest chief master sergeants; they were very quick to step forward and donate the four bicycles given away as door prizes. Just as important were the contributions of time provided by people of the Company Grade Officers' Council, the Airman Leadership School and the First Term Airmen Center. ALS and FTAC were pivotal in the set-up, execution, tear-down and clean-up of the festivities Nov. 14 and 17. There is no doubt that at Pope, it's the people who make us unique. Finally, I hope you had an opportunity to participate and enjoy this year's Military Family Appreciation Week, and I hope our families felt the absolute appreciation. You are the people who motivate us, the military side of Team Pope, each and every day to accomplish our tremendous mission. Thanks to all the people, we are successful.