Rejuvenation vital for hard-working warriors

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel
  • 48th Fighter Wing commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  If you haven't already noticed, Liberty warriors around the base are working more hours lately to accomplish the wing mission.

For that I applaud you, and I am inspired by your commitment to getting the mission done.

With over 800 of our co-workers deployed in support of the current Air and Space Expeditionary Force cycle, and the Air Force's on-going budget and personnel cutbacks, I know we're all focused on how to accomplish our mission more efficiently. And I realize that adds more time to a standard duty day.

Security forces, maintenance and other 24- hour operation centers around the base regularly work 12-hour shifts. Many of these shifts keep our warriors away from home even longer when you include in shift change-over and any unfinished paperwork. Add to that the necessary eight hours of rest and not much is left for anything - or anyone - else.

However, even as Airmen, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we can not lose sight on maintaining a balance within our lives. Although our mission is paramount, the importance of quality time with family, friends and for ourselves is just as important in keeping a healthy, effective force.

Utilize days off, weekends, wing down days and holidays to help rejuvenate and prevent burnout. We're fortunate to live in an amazing, historical, beautiful country with a wealth of opportunities and experiences out our front door - please take full advantage of this.

For Liberty warriors with families - when I say utilize your downtime, I'm not talking about an expensive trip to Disneyland Paris. Simple things, like packing the lunch you planned to eat at the office and instead, eating it at Defender Park with your spouse, can offer you and your family more time together. A walk to the base exchange with your co-worker instead of jumping in the car can give you a chance to talk and get some exercise. A short one- to two-hour road trip on the weekends with your children can take you to numerous castles, festivals, beaches, amusement parks, theaters and historic sites. Not only are these things affordable, but many are free and always available.

For single Airmen - in many respects I envy you. The opportunities you have available for you are boundless. Visit the education center and get CCAF, bachelor's or master's degree. Get involved in your community through the Airmen Committed to Excellence, Company Grade Officers Council or the base chapel. These opportunities provide you a chance to better yourself, give back to our communities, network and be a part of something bigger than us all.

For commanders, section chiefs and supervisors - I know I do not need to tell you how important it is to watch out for your people. After that big inspection or project is completed, reward your people for the extra work they put in by cutting them loose early on a Friday afternoon or giving them a day of compensation. When they return the following workday, you will be rewarded with a refreshed Airman ready to attack the next project or refocus on the mission at hand.

Liberty warriors - our wing mission, to provide responsive combat air power, support and services to our nation and its allies, cannot be a success without you. Each of us must be at the top of our game, physically, mentally and spiritually, to work together as an effective team.

When it's time to work, I expect you to execute to the best of your ability while striving to improve another 10 percent. When it's time to relax, I hope you play hard and rest fully. When you're at home, enjoy the time with your family, be there for your friends and make the most of the free time you may have. The return will be a more focused, effective, efficient fighting force and, better yet, a happier, healthier, more productive you