Welcome home: Reintegrating into squadron life

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel
  • 48th Fighter Wing commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  During the past several weeks, more than 800 Team Liberty members have returned from deployments in support of the Air and Space Expeditionary Force cycle. These men and women have been absent from their families, friends and co-workers and all are glad to have them back. But not so fast. Everything will not be exactly as it was before they deployed.

Many of our deployed airmen have worked very hard in their 24/7 locations and often in a very stressful environment. They will need some time to settle in and then adjust to the Liberty Wing's battle rhythm again. Stepping directly back into the Liberty Wing battle rhythm is not something that either the returning deployer or the rest of the people in the work center are probably prepared for. While these AEF deployers were away, our Liberty Wing work centers survived and the mission got done. Those of us left behind have learned new processes and maybe even set up different procedures to accomplish the mission. We should not be too quick to try and change everything at once. The combined experiences can lead to new and innovative ideas that can only help to further the mission.

Even as the deployed member and their family are given the time to reintegrate into family life, coworkers should also remember to take it slow. It will take time to reestablish our good working relationships, learn new procedures and maybe even learn a new job.

All of us have learned much from our recent experiences. Our AEF deployers have experienced much while on deployment and our airmen back at the Liberty Wing have accomplished just as much while they were gone. All of us should share what we have learned and take advantage of these lessons and see what might be helpful in continuing to accomplish the mission. The Wingman concept has never been truer than during times like these, taking care of each other and being a responsible member of the team will aide in making a smooth transition for everyone involved.

I ask that everyone keep safety in mind as they celebrate their return home to family and friends.

Congratulations and welcome home, Liberty Warriors.