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  • There I was...: The Mission Picks You

    Deploying is one of the most enjoyable and challenging parts of being in the military. To show my interest in deploying, I would hound the unit deployment manager by sending routine emails stating I had passed my physical fitness test; I was not on a profile, and that I was cleared with the dentist.

  • A Day of Service

    In 2009, Congress designated September 11th as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. On this day, I think it is fitting that we remember and honor the innocent lives taken during that vicious attack by renewing our commitment of service to our Nation. As the son of an Air Force NCO, I grew up

  • Gearing up for the ‘big game’

    Recently, one of the world-class airmen I serve with at the MacDill clinic asked me what a Consolidated Unit Inspection feels like when the inspectors are on base. After sharing my thoughts, I saw it as an opportunity to share similar thoughts with my teammates outside the walls of the clinic. It is

  • ‘There I was...’ The quiet experts

    Deployments are a part of every Airman's life, from the day they in-process at their first duty station until the day they leave the Air Force. At one point or another, virtually every Airman is on, returning from or preparing for a deployment. Last year, I joined the ranks of these deployed

  • Outstanding teamwork; some team standouts

    As we enter the long holiday weekend, I ask each of you to keep our neighbors to the north dealing with the effects of Hurricane Isaac in your thoughts. Although the Tampa Bay area was spared, many are in need of assistance as a result of the storm's devastation. We must not forget the havoc that

  • Lead by example; maintain high standards

    While I've never been known as an inspirational speaker, I believe actions speak louder than words. I've outlined a few key guiding principles that have directed my actions over the years. Lead by example, empower your people, exceed the standards, and take care of your people. For those of you who

  • Use ‘buy-in,’ common goals as leadership tools

    Whether you know and understand what Total Force Integration really is, in a military environment it is indispensable. I am an active-duty commander under the operational direction of an Air National Guard wing. My parent wing, the 6th Air Mobility Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, exercises

  • Commander's Corner: 'Airmen, mission and community'

    "What an incredible privilege to serve as your commander at MacDill Air Force Base!" was my first thought after I learned that my family and I were moving to the Tampa Bay area. It has been more incredible than I could have imagined thus far. We have been welcomed by the base, the city and the

  • There I Was...

    There I was... driving a Humvee through the swamps of Louisiana in the middle of the night using nothing but night vision goggles to navigate the rough terrain. It was quite an interesting experience. In fact, every day in Tigerland was interesting. In preparation for my deployment to Afghanistan I

  • It's been an honor to serve with you; team standouts

    On July 27, 2012, my time as commander of the 6th Air Mobility Wing and MacDill's installation commander will come to a close. I never really believed the time would pass so quickly, but sadly it has. My wife Michele and our three children have enjoyed and relished the opportunity to serve with you