Commander’s reception brings back personal touch to newcomers Published Sept. 18, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Bryan Gatewood 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs MacDill AFB, Fla -- September 8th marked the first 6th Air Mobility Wing Commander's Reception, bringing a personal touch to newcomers to the MacDill AFB Team. The Commander's reception "is an opportunity for me to welcome all newcomers to MacDill AFB and the Tampa Bay community," said Col. Lawrence Martin, 6th Air Mobility Wing commander, who opened the reception. The commander's reception is a way to give newcomers a sense of community and being part of the team, said Mrs. Shirley Smith, MacDill Airman and Family Readiness Center Community Readiness consultant. Based on surveys taken at the first reception, five-out-of-five members very much agreed that they felt welcomed. Attendees were also able to give feedback on that survey with the following comments: "I really enjoyed this briefing." "It was very informative. Thanks!" "All the briefers were short and concise. I also liked the giveaways and getting to know all the people in the room." In a memo from Colonel Martin dated Aug. 31, 2009, the receptions are "open to all newcomers; military, civilians, spouses and family members; however, it is a mandatory formation for all newly assigned military members" and will be added to all unit in-processing checklists. The receptions are held the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month at the Bayshore Club from 9:45 a.m. to noon. They consist of approximately one hour of briefings followed by lunch and information fair. For more information on the Commander's reception, call Mrs. Smith at 828-0137.