September a significant month for nation, service Published Sept. 19, 2012 By Col. Scott DeThomas 6th Air Mobility Wing commander MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- With the passing of Labor Day and end of the critical days of summer, it is time to focus on the fall transition and upcoming events. Air Mobility Command did well these past 101 days and reduced its losses, but we must remember to stay vigilant throughout the year. Fall and winter activities bring just as many challenges and dangers and we should continue to exercise good judgment and risk mitigation throughout the year. Have a plan and a backup plan for every activity. September also commemorates several other significant events; National POW/MIA Recognition Day on Sept. 21, and the attacks of Sept. 11. Our nation's proud heritage and belief in our warrior spirit is marked by the recognition of our POWs and MIAs and our continued vigilance to bring every warrior home. Ingrained in our Airmen's creed is the concept of "never leaving an Airman behind" and that truly separates us from all other nations in our commitment to our fallen. With the passing of 9/11, it is important to never forget those horrific events and how the United States responded as a nation to stand together and continues to fight extremism around the world. Never forget our warriors in harm's way and the service and sacrifice of their families and friends in support of their cause. Earlier this month marked the return of the Tampa Bay USO to Tampa International Airport after a 20-year hiatus. For most of us, traveling through busy airports occurs frequently, and it is nice to know that there is a transitional place of comfort available for our active duty and family members. The USO provides such a comfort. Thank you, Mr. Walter Lamerton and the entire USO Tampa Board for taking care of our military and their families through this incredible gesture of good will from the Tampa Bay area toward our military members. Speaking of taking care of our military families, have you heard of the Heartlink program? Heartlink is a program that initiates new spouses into the military. The program teaches them how to read a leave and earning statement, how members are paid and even goes into why we have to deploy. I highly recommend this class to any of our new spouses. If you would like to register for the class, call our superstars at the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 828-0145. Finally, this past week kicked off the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. There are lots of great events scheduled this month to honor and recognize the amazing contributions that diversity brings to our great Air Force. If you missed out on the dancing lessons last Friday, plug in and find an upcoming event to show your support. This week also marked our 65th Anniversary of the Air Force...Happy Birthday!