2011 a time of successes, 2012 will bring change

  • Published
  • By Gen. Donald Hoffman
  • Air Force Materiel Command Commander
As the holidays draw close and the year winds down, we have an opportunity to reflect on the past 12 months and think ahead about what's to come.

I would like to thank our team of more than 85,000 hard-working Airmen--military and civilian. As a result of your talents and professionalism, we have seen many successes this year across all of our mission areas.

In January, the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center reached full operational capability, demonstrating the center's ability to help ensure our nuclear weapons are safe, secure and effective. In March, Air Force senior leaders personally congratulated the team responsible for the source selection of the new KC-46A tanker--the Air Force's top acquisition priority. In August, the KC-135 Stratotanker Programmed Depot Maintenance Team at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., was recognized by the Department of Defense for outstanding achievements in weapon system and military equipment maintenance. At Edwards, the test team is putting the Joint Strike Fighter through its paces and is logging more sorties than originally planned to ensure this fighter is ready to enter the operational Air Force. The Air Force Research Laboratory has too many accomplishments to list, but rapid deployment of technology to the warfighter and certification of our fleets to operate on alternative fuels are both significant.

These accomplishments are representative of many other successes across the command and are a direct reflection of the contributions each and every one of you make to the Air Force Materiel Command mission. The new year will bring many changes for AFMC and the Air Force. But no matter what the future holds, I know your dedication and commitment to the mission will remain strong.

During this holiday season, please remember there are some 31,000 Airmen--military and civilian--deployed from units across the Air Force. From AFMC, more than 1,300 men and women are deployed. Think of them, but also think about yourself as safety never takes a holiday. Winter activities bring increased risks and hazards, so travel and celebrate with care. Sound risk management and thoughtful planning will help ensure a safe season for all.

Jacki and I wish you and your families a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year. We are proud to serve with you in the world's most respected air and space force.