Features

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy — Throughout the time we spend in the military, we collect many things. Whether they are mementos, awards or habits, such items are kept to remember the special moments we never wish to forget. Challenge coins are an example of these memories, as they are a form of recognition of the hard work and excellence an individual has displayed.

This year, the world will celebrate Earth Day on April 22. Earth Day is an opportunity to rethink our commitment to energy conservation. The 21st Theater Sustainment Command developed its energy discipline program in 2014. The focus of the program this year is to conduct energy assessments during tactical operations and training.

What is an air mobility operations wing? This is a great question — the same question that I asked myself when I was selected to command this unique wing. As Air Mobility Command’s sole representative for Team Ramstein, many may think we just operate the Ramstein Passenger Terminal, but our mission consists of so much more than that.

With many languages around the world, communication can be a challenge between nations. One group of Airmen make it easier with the use of an international language — music. The U.S. Air Forces in Europe Band Touch ’n Go ensemble works to spread joy and raise morale for audiences in deployed countries across Europe, Africa and other locations.

Most people have probably heard the old adage, “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Maybe they have spoken these words themselves in an effort to dissuade a bully’s attack, but in reality, we know that words can hurt and can cause damage.