Thank you, you are making a difference Published Sept. 22, 2006 By LT. Col. Tony Marlowe 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron commander MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- -- I have learned that people are inspired by these few simple words "Thank you. You are making a difference." When I was a young captain, Master Sgt. Jones entered my office one Friday evening very upset. She said "Sir, you never tell us thank you or how well we are doing." I was shocked at her accusation and could not believe she was talking about me. After several hours of contemplating what she had said, I finally realized that she was right. I had become so caught up with accomplishing the mission that I simply forgot how hard the people were working. I forgot to tell them how much I appreciated their hard work and to tell them about the difference they were making. A couple of days later, I gave Master Sgt. Jones a task to complete. After she had just completed the task, I walked over to her office while she was out and placed a sticky note on her desk that read, "Thank you. You are making a difference." About an hour later, she came bursting into my office. Her eyes were glowing and she had this big grin on her face. She replied "Thank you, sir." That's when I learned the power of these few simple words. Whether it is fixing aircraft, writing contracts, repairing communication lines, responding to a work order, delivering parts or handing out towels at the base gym, your efforts have made it possible for our wing to achieve its mission of global reach, where and when needed. While deploying to various areas in support of the Global War on Terror, your selfless sacrifice and dedication to duty has helped to protect our homeland from further terrorist attacks, enhance other nation's capability to fight terrorism and make it possible for people in various countries to get a taste of freedom who otherwise would have never had the chance to taste it. Your community involvement in programs such as Big Brothers and Big Sisters and Habitat for Humanity has made life better for others and demonstrated to our community just how much our military cares. The long hours you spent working during this year's Open House Air Show helped to bridge the gap between our military and local community. Your efforts increased support for our military and gave our community a sense of well-being as our nation continues to fight the Global War on Terror. Almost 13 years later, I can still remember Master Sergeant Jones' words, "you never tell us thank you or how well we are doing." To the men and women of the 22nd ARW, thank you for your self¬less sacrifice, dedication to duty and commitment to excellence. You are making a difference!