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Meet the new 911th ARS commander

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  • By Staff
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Lt. Col. David Pike recently took command of the 911th Air Refueling Squadron, Seymour Johnson, N.C., a geographically separated unit to the 6th Air Mobility Wing. He took time out to introduce himself to the MacDill community and answered a few questions from the Thunderbolt.

Thunderbolt: What do you expect of the Airmen under your command?

Pike: I expect leaders and supervisors to lead from the front in all aspects. I believe the squadron is three things: First and foremost a premier military organization, meaning we do things right and seek to do them right the first time. Second, we are a high performance team. Everyone pulls together and contributes their individual talents and strengths for the good of the team. Third, we are a family. We take care of each other, are great wingmen, learn from each other, pick each other up when it's needed, cheer each other on and encourage one another. We make time to get to know each other, have fun together and build a sense of loyalty and family pride.

Thunderbolt: Who are your favorite leaders and role models and why?

Pike: My favorite leaders are great coaches--those who build and inspire their team to pull together and develop winning reputations. I am wired with a sports-minded mentality that life in many aspects is like a game. We never know what may come our way or why things happen the way they do, but that is exactly why it is so important for us to be surrounded by folks who we trust and know have our back as we have theirs. There is nothing like being on a winning team and being able to share success with high-performing teammates.

Thunderbolt: What does it mean to you to be a new commander?

Pike: It is an absolute honor and privilege to be counted worthy to lead an Air Force squadron. The opportunity to be able to positively affect folks' lives and careers at critical junctures and see them track toward their dreams and aspirations, and building a winning team are awesome things that can never be taken lightly.

Thunderbolt: When you hold your first commander's call what is the first thing you are going to tell your Airmen?

Pike: I work for you.

Thunderbolt: What are your thoughts about Seymour Johnson and living in Goldsboro?

Pike: The folks in the Goldsboro, N.C., area are absolutely top notch. It is hard to find a more military-friendly and supportive community. Of all my assignments I put this community at the top of my list.

Thunderbolt: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Pike: Everyday is a gift. It is up to us to decide how we will open the present.