JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii –
Last month, I was presented the greatest opportunity of my Air Force career -- I became commander of Pacific Air Forces.
I want to tell you how honored and humbled I feel to be here. Standing in front of our Pacific Airmen and accepting the PACAF flag from General Welsh was an incredible experience, and I can't tell you how proud I am to serve alongside you. The sacrifice and dedication our Airmen make every day is daunting. I want you to know you make a difference in everything you do. Although I will personally share this with you during my base visits in the coming months, I want to share some thoughts on what I believe.
Airpower brings a unique, asymmetric advantage, with speed, range and flexibility to this immense area of responsibility. In addition, our ability to put any adversary at risk, anytime, anywhere, is foundational to what we bring to the joint effort as Airmen. As U.S. Pacific Command's air component, we will continue to provide global vigilance, global reach, and global power in defense of our nation and its regional allies. All of this starts with you.
I've only been here for a few days and already I am amazed by what I have seen. Our Pacific Airmen shoulder a tremendous burden, yet they make it look easy. This is a critical time for PACAF as regional and global events pose increasingly serious challenges to the international community and our own national security. These challenges are compounded by tightened military budgets and a shrinking force. While I expect these challenges to continue for the short term, I know we have the right people to get the mission done. Be assured that I will, first and foremost, support you, our amazing Airmen, and your families who serve this important command.
Your Air Force is powered by you. It is fueled by your innovation, and strengthened by our diversity. You are our front line warriors. You and your families are the heart and soul of this command and are the reason why the United States Air Force remains the best Air Force in the world. I have full confidence that no matter what is asked; you will succeed and continue to make our nation proud. Our Air Force truly depends on each of us to win the fight, to strengthen the team, and to shape the future. I pledge to listen to you, and to faithfully represent you.
My husband, David, and I are very excited to meet you and your families as we visit your bases and see firsthand your execution of the Air Force mission. Thank you in advance for everything you do, each and every day.