Hanscom leaders give community update

  • Published
  • By Lauren Russell
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Hanscom leaders provided a community update via social media to discuss ongoing COVID-19 response measures here March 19.

Col. Chad Ellsworth, installation commander, announced that all playgrounds on base are now closed to mitigate the spread of the virus.

There are currently no confirmed cases on Hanscom; however of the 256 confirmed cases in Massachusetts, 100 are in Middlesex County, where the installation is located. Hanscom remains in health protection condition bravo.

“I know it’s been quite the task to ensure our children are busy and active while maintaining vital social distancing,” said Ellsworth.

The commander took the opportunity to encourage base residents to reach out to each other over the phone or social media to ensure the community stays resilient.

“I’m asking not as a commander, but as a husband, father, and your neighbor here on base, that we not get divisive or upset with each other,” he said. “We’re all in this together.”

Ellsworth also took the opportunity to thank the men and women of the Hanscom workforce.

“Thank you all for your patience while we work to take care of our number one priority: you and your families,” he said.

Chief Master Sgt. Michael Daly, installation command chief, echoed the commander’s sentiment.

“These are trying times, and we just ask that you be patient and flexible,” said Daly.

Ellsworth noted that Hanscom maintains a webpage dedicated to providing the most up-to-date information regarding Hanscom-related guidance and facility and service status. Visit www.hanscom.af.mil/coronavirus for updated information.