Team Vance garners more honors than snow

  • Published
  • By Col Wade Johnson
  • 71st Flying Training Wing
Team Vance - it is good to see everyone survived the snow that rolled through town.
I am constantly reminded of the great people we have serving here. For example, if you find yourself around the Aerospace Physiology building, be sure to congratulate MSgt Brad Tucker and SSgt Lori Shackleford. MSgt Tucker earned the Air Education and Training Command aerospace physiology senior NCO of the year, and SSgt Shackleford earned AETC NCO of the year. Outstanding work and congratulations on being recognized by AETC for your efforts.
This years AETC safety award winners have been announced and the 71st Flying Training Wing walked away with two of them. The Tops Trophy for best overall safety program and the General Frank P. Lahm Trophy for best flying safety program were both deservingly awarded to Vance Air Force Base. Amazing work and congratulations to the Vance Safety office. Many of us take for granted the unbelievable safety record Vance has sported the last few years, but it takes a program of this level to maintain it.
This week, we conducted a change of command of the 25th Flying Training Squadron. Congratulations are in order for two fine commanders. I welcome the new commander of the 25th Flying Training Squadron, Lt. Col. Leonard Litton. Colonel Litton, you did an outstanding job in the safety office, and I'm sure that level of excellence will continue as you take the reins of the Shooters. The 25th's outgoing commander, Lt Col Nicholas Sandwick will not be leaving Team Vance, but will contribute his expertise and leadership in our operations group. Colonel Sandwick, thank you for the great work and superb leadership with the Shooters. We're fortunate to have had you leading one of our fine flying squadrons, and I'm glad you're still working for us here at Vance.
Don't forget to check out the tax center which opens for business starting in February. This free service saves Department of Defense cardholders thousands of dollars every year and will offer assistance with preparing your income tax return.
Have a safe and enjoyable weekend, and I'll see you all Monday.