Thanks for the memories Published Aug. 20, 2008 By Col. Al Hunt 375th Airlift Wing commander SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Thanks... It's not often that I get emotional, but it's hard not to after 27 months in the position as the 375th Airlift Wing commander. Pouring everything you have into a job like this would make most folks tired just thinking about it, but I honestly thrived off the energy of all the great people who made this dream a reality. When I look back, one thing becomes perfectly clear...none of our successes would have been possible without the teamwork, dedication, and expertise from you. As the wing commander, my goal was simply to give vision, direction, and "top cover" so you could do what needed to be done. The report card tells the true story...straight A's across the board. Our community relations have never been better, and we're doing a great job letting folks know what we do in support of the global war on terror as well as humanitarian relief operations around the world. It's not bragging, rather it's all about educating folks with the "rest of the story" as Paul Harvey would say. It's also about turning the hand vertically as we partner rather than placing the hand horizontally and asking for a handout. We have a lot to be proud of and I can't express how grateful I am to have had an opportunity to serve to make JTF Scott and the local community a better place to work and play. I've said it time and time again...it's all about leveraging technology, ingenuity, and manpower in a joint total force environment. You have not only embraced the concept...more importantly, you've helped create the culture for years to come. Our incoming wing commander, Col. Gary Goldstone, and I met a few days ago and I'm happy to say he "gets it". We are lucky to have someone of his caliber along with that of the 375th AW vice commander, Col. Steve Oliver, and the 375th AW command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Jim Suttles. Together, they will undoubtedly build on the successes we've enjoyed over the last 27 months and take JTF Scott to new and exciting heights. A special thanks goes out to the families for all they continue to do to support us. Their "devotion to duty" is the thread that keeps the cloth together so we can do what needs to be done. I'm also encouraged by the next generation of future warriors entering the military. Many have doubted them because they are "different". After spending countless hours with them, I can honestly say we are fortunate to have these future leaders VOLUNTEERING to serve our country in a time of war. They are the future and the future is bright. Many of them are coming in with college credits and college degrees... yes, they are different, but that's okay. They ask why and many times for good reason. If you haven't had the chance to spend a few minutes with them, try it... you might be surprised what they have to say. In closing, I look back with no regrets. The things we've done together to make JTF Scott and our local communities better is phenomenal. The list of accomplishments is long... you made them happen. Congratulations on your successes! Thanks to the military, government employees, contractors, local communities, and families for your support. Please continue to carry it forward for Colonel Goldstone and the great team we've come to know as JTF Scott. Very Respectfully, Al, Laura, Zach, Shannon and Amie Hunt