Community bonds vital to mission success

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel
  • Commander, 48th Fighter Wing
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Living in a new country can be an overwhelming experience. On one hand, the excitement of experiencing something different is an adventure. On the other hand, the cultural differences can take time to get use to.

Thankfully, our British hosts readily welcome Liberty warriors and our families to the community. Their warm welcome has a way of making the transition from the U.S. to the U.K. lifestyle seamless.

Likewise, it is a pleasure and our duty as U.S. ambassadors to be good neighbors. Joining in village festivities within our communities, learning and celebrating British customs and courtesies, and making friends within our communities are vital steps to ensuring solid and healthy community relations for the Liberty Wing and all Americans in East Anglia.

RAF Lakenheath takes community relations on step further through our Honorary Commanders program and British American Committee. Pairing each squadron and group commander with a British counterpart from the surrounding villages and towns helps reinforce how important establishing community relations are to accomplishing our 48th FW mission. The BAC further helps by fostering positive environment for these relations to cultivate and to encourage an exchange of ideas, experiences and friendships between key leaders in the local civilian community and the RAF Lakenheath's military community.

On March 23 we not only welcome new and old honorary commanders back to base, but also open our gates for our local dignitaries, councilors, mayors and civic leaders during the annual Spring Reception. The reception gives us a chance to come together yearly with the community leaders who support the Liberty Wing year-round. It also allows us to meet some of the new faces--both military and civilian, British and American.

Although the Spring Reception and Honorary Commanders Program is an opportunity to thank and recognize community members, I challenge each Liberty member to personally contribute to community relations. Get out in your community; experience the country; go to village markets, festivals and mingle. Make a gesture of friendship -- take a dish over to your neighbor or invite them over for afternoon tea. In general, show our American hospitality and be a good neighbor.

To our special guests with us during the Spring Reception - "Welcome!" We are honored to have you as a part of Team Liberty. On behalf of the men and women of the 48th Fighter Wing, I look forward to an exciting year ahead of strengthening relationships and forging new friendships.