Vice commander speaks on future events

  • Published
  • By Col. Douglas Lamberth
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing vice commander
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Team McConnell (Airpower),

Great job this week during our Major Accident Response Exercise. A MARE is required to be accomplished before every Air Show/Open House. I'm positive we're well prepared as we quickly approach our Open House weekend.

As a reminder, reference an email I sent out earlier this week, remember to refer "all" media inquiries involving McConnell to 22 Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs at 759-3141.

Hooray. Sept. 2 we graduate our next group of frontline supervisors from Airman Leadership School.

Sept. 8 and 9, we will be visited by the 18th Air Force commander and his wife. I know you will represent McConnell terrifically as they make their way around your work centers.
Also, Sept. 10, we honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice via our Patriot Day ceremonies. Those details are described below, as well as some other upcoming events.

Finally, Labor Day was set-aside by Congress approximately 100 years ago to recognize the fruits and sacrifices of the American Worker. As military members, you certainly qualify as part of an elite category in that genre. This weekend is meant for you and your family to take time away from duty to enjoy what is considered the year's summer close out. Our military leadership further recognizes your contributions by adding an additional day for your relaxation.

Use this time wisely, plan accordingly and assess the risks carefully. Make travel plans that make sense and carefully match your activities to your abilities. Finally, be a good Wingman and keep an eye on those around you. This weekend is for you, Team McConnell. Relax, enjoy, recharge and come back safely. Thank you for all that you do.

Very Respectfully,
Col Douglas Lamberth
Vice Commander

·Sept. 8-9 - 18 AF/CC Visit
·Sept. 10 - Patriot Day Wing Run, 6:45 a.m. behind the health and wellness center
·Sept. 10 - Patriot Day Retreat Ceremony, 4:30 p.m. at base flagstaff
·Sept. 10-12 - Single Parents Retreat at Rock Springs
·Sept. 17 - Air Force Birthday Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. at the Robert J. Dole Community Center, RSVP no later than Sept. 7.

Patriot Day Wing Formation Run: Sept. 10 at 6:45a.m., form-up on the road behind the HAWC. The route will run onto the flight line. This is a mandatory formation run. Air Force physical training uniform is required. Please contact Senior Airman Jonathan Scherquist 759-3077 for more information.

Patriot Day Retreat Ceremony: Sept. 10, 4:30 p.m. at the base flagstaff, building 1. This annual Patriot Day Retreat Ceremony will include an address from the wing commander followed by the ringing of the last alarm bell, a '21 gun salute, bagpiper, military retreat ceremony and a flyover. Formation consists of base and community first responders. However, all Team McConnell personnel and their families are encouraged to participate/observe the retreat ceremony - bleachers will be available. In the event of bad weather, the ceremony will be held in the south bay of building 1176 - fire station #1. Dress will be uniform of the day. Visit the wing calendar for more information or contact Lt. Col. Robert Mallets at 759-4129 or Tech. Sgt. Jenson VanCise at 759-3902.

Single Parents Retreat: Sept. 10 to 12 at Rock Springs 4-H Center, Junction City, Kan. The retreat provides an excellent chance to enjoy an affordable family outing for our single parents and their children. This event is open to all McConnell's active duty, guard, reserve, civilian, dependant, etc. The retreat begins on Sept. 10 at 3 p.m., with dinner at 7 p.m. and retreat ends on Sept. 11 morning before lunch. The main events are on Sept. 11, with a "choose your own schedule" format where parents can do activities on their own and with their children throughout the day. There will be a drop-in activities program hosted by the Airman & Family Readiness Center and seminars offered by the Chapel and Family Advocacy. Cost is $30 per family and all activities and meals are included. For more information, visit the Chapel site and/or for registration contact Tech. Sgt. James Smith at 759-3566.

Air Force Birthday Luncheon: Sept. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Dole Center ballroom, in recognition of the Air Force's upcoming birthday, we are going to celebrate the "History of McConnell" with a luncheon. All members of Team McConnell and guests are invited to attend. Dress is uniform of the day. You must sign up by close of business Sept. 7. There is also a McConnell history contest. Please view attachment on wing calendar for rules and entry procedures. If you have any questions please contact Capt. Garret Bilbo, Capt. Gabe Arrington or Capt. Sam Kidd.