SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- How many times have you asked someone or thought about the question for yourself, "How long do you have before you can retire?"
Retirement brings different ideas: some think the day will never come, others don't ever think about it because they love what they do, but one common comment is, "It'll be time to retire when it's not fun anymore."
I don't know about you, but I can relate to most of those ideas. Physical health adds another wrinkle.
My time will soon be here. I retire July 1, 2011. As I reflect on my 26-year relationship with the Air Force, I have many fond memories. Little did I know when I left my home in northern Alabama and reported to Officer Training School on Feb. 19, 1985 that I'd be retiring one day. I joined thinking of the opportunities I'd have, not with strong commitment of serving my country.
Starting at Medina Annex of Lackland Air Force Base, Texas I soon learned about the Air Force way of life. Moving on to Kessler AFB, Miss. for technical training, I absorbed a little more about expectations, but reporting to my first assignment at Ellsworth in South Dakato I began my life-long adventure.
Being involved with any organization as long I have, you learn many things. One of the things that immediately comes to mind is the people I've met along the way. I've enjoyed meeting and getting to know many different people with different experiences. I learned everyone didn't think or act the same as me!
My positions allowed contact with many organizations and people across base. From stateside to the sands of Afghanistan and Iraq, the story was the same--the people make the job. I applaud all of those I've encountered for performing their jobs in a very professional manner, which sometimes were in austere places and in very uncomfortable situations.
I especially thank those of the 916th Communication Squadron, both current and former members, for their dedication and willingness to support the directions I gave. I could not have asked for a better group of folks to guide--just set the course and watch the progress!
To be a part of something much larger than me has been a great adventure. Everyone associated with the military knows it takes support of family and friends to be successful. To share it with my wife of 25 years who understands because, she too, is a dedicated Airman serving in the Air National Guard makes my service even better.
Most of all I thank my God for allowing all of these things and people to be part of my life. What a different life I would have had if I hadn't joined the Air Force 26 years ago--different, but not better.
With that I salute all who wear a U.S. military uniform and wish you Godspeed.