TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- As we celebrate 250 years of our nation, we have much to be proud of. But nowhere is the enduring strength of America more evident than within the bedrock of our aircraft sustainment enterprise…the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex.
Early in my career, my focus was entirely on the pointy end of the spear—launching and recovering aircraft, loading munitions and generating combat airpower for our nation. With more than 25 years of logistics experience since those days, I now realize how narrow that perspective was. The tactical execution at the frontlines is the visible part, but the readiness we project globally is forged by tens of thousands of dedicated professionals across the sustainment spectrum.
True readiness starts at the foundation. It begins with the supply chain experts managing the hundreds of thousands of parts that will eventually fly into combat. It requires finance and business professionals who secure and sustain our workload. It relies on the planners and schedulers who expertly sequence complex maintenance along with the tools and parts professionals who supply our world-class artisans. Finally, it rests in the hands of the mechanics and technicians who overhaul the components, engines and aircraft that our Airmen ultimately push forward into harm’s way.
This is the work below the waterline. It is the unseen, foundational effort that makes American air supremacy possible—and it is the work we too often take for granted.
At a Fourth of July fireworks show, we marvel at the bursts of color in the sky. During the Super Bowl, we cheer the performance and teamwork. And as a nation, we project freedom and strength. But on this milestone 250th anniversary, I ask you to reflect on the unseen foundational efforts…and the thousands of people working in concert to make it all possible.
The readiness of our nation starts at OC-ALC. The Total Force uniformed and civilian Airmen who walk through these gates every day are the true bedrock of our national security.
Every day throughout my career, I have been continually reminded of the many reasons I am proud to be an American and an Airman. But this year, I am uniquely privileged to add one more. I am incredibly proud to be a member of the OC-ALC team, and to serve alongside the professionals who keep America flying, fighting and winning.