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AFDW Commander Offers Initial Impressions and Appreciation

By Maj. Gen. Sharon K.G. Dunbar, Air Force District of Washington Commander / Published September 04, 2012

Air Force District of Washington Commander Maj. Gen. Sharon K.G. Dunbar greets Tech. Sgt. Taylor Armstrong, U.S. Air Force Band musician, during a tour of the band hangar, Aug. 24, on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. Dunbar assumed command of AFDW July 26 and has been impressed with capabilities she has seen by Airmen throughout the National Capital Region so far. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Steele C. G. Britton)
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Air Force District of Washington Commander Maj. Gen. Sharon K.G. Dunbar greets Tech. Sgt. Taylor Armstrong, U.S. Air Force Band musician, during a tour of the band hangar, Aug. 24, on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. Dunbar assumed command of AFDW July 26 and has been impressed with capabilities she has seen by Airmen throughout the National Capital Region so far. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Steele C. G. Britton)

Air Force District of Washington Commander Maj. Gen. Sharon K.G. Dunbar listens to Lt. Col. Kenneth Marentette, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard commander, describe the duties and capabilities of the honor guard, Aug. 24, during a tour on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. Dunbar has become familiar with the missions of AFDW over the past two months as she continues to lead Air Force operations and support Joint Force and Inter-Agency operations in the National Capital Region while providing support to Combatant Commanders and Air Force Elements worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Steele C. G. Britton)
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Air Force District of Washington Commander Maj. Gen. Sharon K.G. Dunbar listens to Lt. Col. Kenneth Marentette, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard commander, describe the duties and capabilities of the honor guard, Aug. 24, during a tour on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. Dunbar has become familiar with the missions of AFDW over the past two months as she continues to lead Air Force operations and support Joint Force and Inter-Agency operations in the National Capital Region while providing support to Combatant Commanders and Air Force Elements worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Steele C. G. Britton)

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Joint Base Andrews, Md. -- Having been in command at AFDW for just over a month, I've had the privilege of meeting many of you and seeing you in action. I've watched with pride as you execute missions vital to our Air Force and National Capital Region with precision and professionalism. I see why "AFDW Rocks!"

The proud men and women of AFDW provide unique support, services, and protection of our nation's civilian and military leaders and assets. Beyond the daily mission operations you perform so well, over the past month you've also provided first-rate support to the Air Force Chief of Staff transition ceremony, Air Force Week in New York City, and the recent JTF-NCR State Funeral Training Exercise. With each event I've received countless compliments on your positive impact. Thank you for your tremendous dedication and teamwork.

There's a special trust, privilege and responsibility associated with performing AFDW missions. On a variety of fronts, AFDW personnel serve as ambassadors of our Air Force -- what you do, and how you do it, is noted every day by both national and international audiences.

Thank you for performing your missions and conducting yourselves with the utmost professionalism at all times.

With the November elections around the corner, AFDW is readying to support yet another major event in our nation's capital -- the 57th Presidential Inauguration. Our AFDW team throughout the NCR will be at the forefront of inauguration activities. As we enter the 2012 election season, please ensure you've registered to vote so you're able to not only protect, but also participate, in our nation's democratic process.

Finally, as you safely enjoy this long Labor Day weekend with your family and friends, please ensure your fellow Airmen and civilian teammates are doing the same. Tragically, our Air Force has lost 15 Airmen in off-duty mishaps this summer, a higher loss rate than in previous years. As the 100 Critical Days of Summer come to a close, let's work together to protect our Air Force family from further losses due to avoidable safety mishaps.

Thank you for your dedicated service in making a difference to our nation and Air Force. I'm very proud to serve alongside you and look forward to meeting all of our AFDW team in the weeks ahead.