From the commander: Remembering the first year of the 'Eagles'

  • Published
  • By Maj. Gen. Kip Self
  • U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Commander
FORT DIX, N.J. --  Since the inception of the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center in March 2007, we have been preparing for the future by spreading the word on the EC's capability, its people and potential. 

People are hearing about what we are doing and want to come see for themselves. My confidence in you, and I admit that with a lot of pride, is based on hard work and an unsurpassed devotion to duty. 

We are gaining momentum on our vision to establish a world-class training and education center that is the envy of the Air Force. For example, our new training missions, such as the Air Advisor and Tactical Security Element courses, are making people stand up and take notice of our abilities. 

As we begin our second year as the USAF EC, we should remember those who served under the banner of the Air Mobility Warfare Center. It's thanks to their efforts that we stand where we are today. The numerous framed citations for the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award hanging on our walls attest to the excellence we inherited. 

In the past year, we have come a long way. We developed a new identity - the "Eagles." The Center's people soar high every day. 

I must admit I am still amazed by your spirit and selflessness to do what it takes to prepare our service member for combat, educate them to be better on the job and provide them with the most modern technology and ideas. 

It has also been a year of change as we brought in new people and said farewell to some great Americans in uniform and out. Mr. Nick Grand, the first U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Foundation president, left behind a legacy of support and love for the Center that will be sorely missed. 

We've also had folks and teams earn huge major command recognition such as the Mobility Operations School and 421st Combat Training Squadron as best in their fields. We've established a new public web site to get out our news and information.
We worked hard during Rodeo 2007 in July and for the Airlift/Tanker Association Convention in October. 

Essentially, we have established ourselves as indispensable in the development of the Airman Warrior by building "Airpower...from the ground up!" 

I want to personally thank all of the Center's "Eagles" for what you do every day for the USAF EC and our United States Air Force! We have a very important mission, and each "Eagle" makes a difference every day. 

I am proud to serve with you.