Holiday greetings from the center commander

  • Published
  • By Lt. Gen. CR Davis
  • Electronic Systems Center commander
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  As we approach the holidays and the New Year, I'd like offer a few thoughts on what we've faced and accomplished together so far. The past year was challenging for the Electronic Systems Center, but in just the short time I've been here, I've seen time and again that our people have what it takes to get the job done, no matter the task.

2011 was a historic year for ESC -- I feel the stress of every challenge we handed you. I wish I could say we have crossed the last hurdle but know we will have more work to do. As our nation retools to meet economic challenges, so must we. 2012 will demand innovation and courage from all of us. We will need to work on transition plans that best enable us to sustain, and even enhance, our critical mission efforts. Yet I am confident that each of you will play a constructive role in ensuring that we continue to support all U.S. warfighters with superior command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and combat support IT solutions.

I am equally confident that you'll continue to serve as great wingmen, looking out for one another and helping anyone who might be finding it hard to cope with changes or workplace stresses. And that you'll continue to work and interact as a team, united by common goals.

Also please, please keep safety paramount as you enjoy your holidays. It is often too easy to get caught up in the rush of the season, so make certain before you travel, go skiing, hit multiple parties or begin any other holiday activity, that you always consider the risks to both you and your loved ones of all your actions. Have fun but please be smart.

Now, though, it is time to take a well-deserved break to enjoy the holidays with family and friends. I realize your thoughts are never far from our warfighters, but as you celebrate, I ask you to take a few minutes to think of those who are deployed and separated from their loved ones. Above all else, stop and remember that somewhere this season an Airman, Sailor, Marine, Soldier or Coast Guardsman has a piece of data needed to defend a position or direct a strike, or has a system to rapidly communicate vital information, or they have needed situational awareness to defend our nation because of work you do here at Hanscom. Be proud.

Susan and I once again extend our sincere thanks for welcoming us so warmly into the ESC family, and we wish you and yours the happiest of holidays.