Commander sets stage for 2011

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman David Dobrydney
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The Liberty Wing hit the ground running in 2011 as 48th Fighter Wing Commander Col. John Quintas held several commanders calls.

The briefings allowed him to highlight some of the accomplishments of 2010 and set the tone for 2011.

Among the achievements Colonel Quintas mentioned were the 2,000 successful combat sorties.

"Every single one had life or death consequences, and we executed them flawlessly," he said.

Additionally, Colonel Quintas mentioned the string of successful inspections the wing experienced, including garnering the first "outstanding" rating in U.S. Air Forces in Europe since 1986 for an operational readiness inspection.

"It was phenomenal, and it was not luck," he said. "It was Airmen doing what they were expected to do."

After lauding the triumphs of 2010, Colonel Quintas explained his expectations for the upcoming year and his four priorities for the wing: sharpening combat capabilities, developing and caring for Airmen and their familes, modernizing and sustaining the installation; and strengthening the partnership with the U.K.

"We have the responsibility to make sure everyone who steps on a flight to the [Area of Responsibility] is trained and equipped to fight," said Colonel Quintas.

Besides continuing to excel in the workplace, Colonel Quintas also emphasized behaving safely off base. "Trust me, your families care about your part of this," he said.

Airmen in the audience were happy to hear from their leadership.

"It's not often you get to hear what higher-ups have to say," said Airman 1st Class Audrey Bishop, 48th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron avionics specialist, who arrived on RAF Lakenheath in November. "It's interesting to hear what's happened and what to expect for the upcoming year. It gives you an idea of how busy this place is."

In closing, Colonel Quintas expressed his gratitude for everything the Liberty Wing Airmen had done that made 2010 such a memorable year.

"Thanks for what you do every day," he said. "I'm looking forward to spending 2011 with you."