• Spirituality binds us together to overcome crisis or stress

    Whether we like it or not, the reality is there's a certain spirituality in us, driving our everyday decision making. We are different from animals that don't have the freedom of choice, self awareness or determination. Throughout history there's some consensus we are matter and spirit, body and

  • Neighbors make good partners

    "Geography has made us neighbors. History has made us friends. Economics has made us partners. And necessity has made us allies. Those whom nature hath so joined together, let no man put asunder." That statement made by the late President John Kennedy, while addressing the Canadian Parliament, is

  • Completing flying mission takes total Team Vance teamwork

    Happy Friday Team Vance! It is with mixed emotions that I take over the duties of 71st Mission Support Group deputy commander. I look forward to the challenges and educational experiences this position will offer. However, after spending 19 years in the operations arena, there is some hesitancy in

  • Vigilance can hinder terrorist attacks

    Last week, Team Vance and the rest of the world witnessed the horrific images of the devastation caused by terrorists' bombings in London. Those attacks emphasized the war on terrorism is indeed a global war. Although America doesn't present the only choice of target, we are still at risk from

  • Prepare to deploy with will, powers of attorney, life insurance

    None of us would ever deploy to a combat zone without a flack vest and helmet. Why? These items provide us with protection ... and a little peace of mind. Likewise, most of us are willing to take the pain associated with the various inoculations that provide protection from biological attack. While

  • Stay safe, be prepared

    Congratulations Team Vance for returning safely from the well-deserved long and, hopefully, restful weekend. Our safety record shows you are continuing to make smart decisions and are using your wingman. As we near the midpoint of the Operation Summer Survival Xtreme Challenge program, it's

  • Former LRS leader says farewell

    It's hard to believe I arrived at Vance Air Force Base more than two years ago. As I depart and reflect back on my assignment here, thoughts of the upcoming Operational Readiness Inspection, this special base and superior community continue to circle around in my mind. I've learned a lot over the

  • Celebrate past, present patriotism

    It's time for Team Vance to take a well-deserved long weekend to join the rest of the country in celebrating the freedoms that earlier generations of warriors provided us with their sacrifices. As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the 229th anniversary of our independence, the

  • 71st FTW Xtreme Challenge: Beat the summer heat

    The summer season is a time for ball games, barbeques, swimming, camping and a wide variety of other enjoyable outdoor activities with family and friends. With temperatures routinely in the upper 90s this week, we've also seen that summer is a time of extreme heat here in Oklahoma. As Team Vance

  • Leading healthier lifestyle improves your quality of life

    One can't escape reading or hearing everyday something related to fitness and nutrition. There is so much information available about how to improve our health that it can be overwhelming. Some military members are just like other Americans and look for that miracle diet or crash fitness regimen.