76th MXW vice retires after 36 years Published May 13, 2009 By Brandice J. Armstrong Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- Thirty-six years ago, James Patterson began his civil service career. He had just separated from the Air Force and wanted to continue to do something where he could serve his country and others. Today, he retires from civil service. Initially hired as a jet engine mechanic and tester, the same position he held as a military member, at McClellan AFB, Mr. Patterson said he gained a profound respect for mechanics and wanted to ensure they had the right resources - tools, training, facilities, and supplies - to perform their job in a safe and efficient manner. "The mechanic is the center of the maintenance universe," Mr. Patterson said. "They have to get the job out no matter what it takes, even when the system fails them. Without them, nothing flies." Following a four-year stint as a mechanic and tester, Mr. Patterson had nine more positions at McClellan AFB and one at Golden Gate University in Sacramento, Calif., before opting to relocate to Tinker. "Tinker seemed the natural choice for me," Mr. Patterson said. "My grandparents lived here during my entire childhood. I visited every summer. My mother also moved here later in life as well." In his career, primarily stationed at McClellan Air Force Base, Calif., and Tinker, he rose through the ranks before landing at the 76th Maintenance Wing as the vice director. Here, he reached his goal and kept his promise. "I promised myself if I ever had the opportunity to serve at a higher level of management, I would do all I could to take care of the hard-working men and women of the civilian force," said Mr. Patterson. "I believe it's now time to move on to new challenges in the private sector using and applying what I have learned over many years of service to our great nation and Air Force." At Tinker, Mr. Patterson progressed through six positions before becoming the 76th MXW's vice director. Looking back on his career, Mr. Patterson said he has no regrets about the decisions he's made. "I wouldn't change a thing," Mr. Patterson said. "I have learned the key to a successful career and it is finding out what our God-given purpose is. Mine is supporting the warfighter. "I am very thankful for the life and career God has given me. I have seen and experienced more than many dream of," Mr. Patterson said. "I am thankful for all that God has done for me and the success he has given me. "Through all the ups and downs of a career, I have always had an emotional connection to my customer; that motivates me to keep going," Mr. Patterson said. "I have seen the kind of people our warfighters are and the sacrifices they make for my family and me." Mr. Patterson said he is especially impressed with Airmen - civilian and military - who incorporate the three core values, particularly "service before self," into their everyday life. He said it is those folks who adopt a "can-do" attitude and apply it to everyday tasks. "They believe in our nation and are willing to give their lives if it is necessary to maintain our way of life," Mr. Patterson said. "They deserve nothing less from me and it has been an honor to serve as well as to support them through the years." Following his Tinker retirement, Mr. Patterson said he accepted a position with Science Applications International Corporation, or SAIC, in Midwest City. He starts his new job as division manager for the Oklahoma City office in June. But, Mr. Patterson said he will miss Tinker, particularly the people. "I have met and developed lifelong friendships with some of the best people I have ever had the privilege of knowing," Mr. Patterson said. "Not seeing them on a daily basis will be a large void for me. Jobs come and go, but a relationship lasts forever." And Tinker personnel will also miss him. "Every day, Jim Patterson came to work with a drive and passion to deliver airpower to the warfighter," said Brig. Gen. Bruce Litchfield, 76th MXW commander. "His dedication to service our nation, Air Force and mission here at Tinker is an inspiration to all who had the opportunity to work side-by-side with him. He will be missed. We all wish him the best as he starts life's next chapter."