Captain’s Column
Well the temperature is in the low 50’s, so we must be close to another Texas winter! Not sure if we’ll see snow like last year, but you never know. In some respects, a white Christmas is always nice, but I’m not sure the snow would last past noon, and driving would be a nightmare…for a few hours anyway.
The colder temperatures do mean we are getting close to the holidays, which can be a great time of year as families and friends get together. In many cases, the tempo of operations will slow down and folks will have the opportunity to take leave and relax a bit. I encourage everyone to take a little down time. We, NASCC and our tenants, have accomplished a great deal in 2018 and 2019 looks to be just as busy… if not more!
For those of you looking to travel for the holidays please make sure you take a little extra time getting to your destination. No need to speed, it would only save you a couple of minutes, and be extra careful if you are traveling at night. Lack of rest can have the same effects as drinking under the influence.
Even if you are staying local, if you plan on going out with friends, especially for New Years, establish a game plan before you go out. Flip a coin, draw straws, play rock-paper-scissors…however you decide, pick a designated driver and stick to the plan. After a couple of rounds of drinks is not the time to figure who is driving home. Also, make sure you have food in the house before you go out. More folks getting into trouble driving under the influence because they go looking for food after the designated driver drops them off. Develop a plan and stick to the plan, that way everyone stays safe!
I would also ask that you look out for each other throughout the holidays. As much as the holidays can be a festive and happy time, for some it can highlight depression as they are away from family and friends. If you know of someone by themselves, reach out to make sure they are doing alright. If you think you see signs of trouble, especially signs or indications of a possible suicide attempt or ideation, don’t assume it’ll be alright, don’t wait…ACT! Ask, Care, Treat. No matter the time or day, folks are always available to help out someone in need.
Many of you have heard me say, NASCC and our tenants directly contribute to national defense with the production of aviators and depot-level repairs, rework and upgrading conducted by CCAD. Each and every active, Reserve, and civilian member of our team is vitally important. As much as I hope you all have a safe and enjoyable holiday season, I also very much want you to return to the base safely, you are all importantly.
Enjoy your holidays, and I wish you all the best of luck in 2019! See you around the base.