Brigadier General Hepner's November 2011 Message

  • Published
  • By Brig Gen Michael D. Hepner
  • 138th FW/CC
Oklahoma Air National Guard, Tulsa OK --     We are approaching a change in seasons. With this change we need to, once again, take stock of our safety practices both at work and at home. Ensure your cold weather uniform requirements are in good order. Any items you need and don't have, place an order with Equipment Issue. Winterize your vehicles and home now while the temperature is mild. Last year's snow storms took a toll on emergency supplies so make sure those are replenished.
   The aircraft parking ramp is undergoing a much needed replacement. The job will encompass three phases so that we can continue flying operations. With that said, there will be, at different times when access to the ramp changes. Please be alert and vigilant for the contractors in your movement to and from the ramp. ECP's will be relocated when the different phases change. FOD will also be an issue during flying operations. We will all need to be aware of this and help the folks on the flightline keep it free of debris. As always, safety is priority number one and is everyone's responsibility to ensure compliance. This replacement project will take approximately 18 to 24 months to complete the entire ramp.
   Our aviation package has arrived safely in country and is doing an outstanding job. Everyone that assisted in the process of getting them there should be very proud of your efforts. We could not be more proud of your "can do" attitude. I know there were some who worked long hours for many days and into the nights in a row getting this deployment out of town. Thank you for going the extra mile!
   News from our warriors overseas will come in from time to time. I need to caution you about putting out information on social media sites. Pictures, numbers of deployers, and locations should not be posted. Practice good COMSEC in all your social media interactions at all times. Their safety is paramount to us and we must do our part.
   As always, we have airmen deployed in the AOR. Please keep them and their families in your thoughts and prayers for a safe return. Strength and Honor.