WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio - As Wright-Patterson Air Force Base continues to operate during Health Protection Condition Bravo through a variety of staffing levels – virtual and in-person, wing leaders stay connected with Airmen through a variety of platforms.
Col. Patrick Miller, the 88th Air Base Wing commander, conducted a virtual commander’s call Nov. 4, addressing COVID-19 procedures, the current operating environment, new opportunities to gather through virtual platforms, and educational and professional-development investments for Airmen and leaders. He also discussed medical readiness, delivering care for families, the Air Force Pathways program that’s bringing in local talent and the newly dedicated Defenders Grove, which honors fallen Airmen lost since 9/11.
He also praised the virtual Air Force Marathon and the team that made it happen.
Other 88th ABW leaders on the call were Greg Leingang, 88th ABW vice director, and Command Chief Master Sgt. Jason Shaffer, 88th ABW command chief.
“The health and safety of Team Wright-Patt Airmen and their families are my top priority – but so is staying connected with my teammates,” Miller said. “We have an amazing team of leaders and medical experts working around the clock to ensure we are making the best decisions for the team, our community and the mission.”
To maintain face-to-face connections between leadership and Airmen, Miller continues to host a quarterly Microsoft Teams commander’s call. Thursday marked his second since taking command.
This virtual meeting platform allows leaders and Airmen to safely interact with each other in a live setting, with information coming directly from the commander.
Miller commended the Wright-Patt Honor Guard, which is among the Air Force’s largest, for its duty and commitment to excellence.
The base commander highlighted the importance of feedback to the medical center’s Joint Outpatient Experience Survey and recognized three medical providers – Col. Josh Scott, Maj. Amy Schimke and Maj. Damian Morgan – for their 100% satisfaction score.
Leingang discussed upcoming January civilian development education opportunities, the Team Wright-Patt mentoring program – registration closes Nov. 13, and a new toolkit to help supervisors lead their teams the best way possible.
Shaffer said he’s proud and excited to serve the wing and focused on the importance of physical fitness to “stay ready, don’t get ready,” the new fitness test and possible standards. He also urged Airmen to stay connected and remain resilient over the holidays.
“Keep your teammates in mind and utilize programs available to you,” he added, “and take advantage of opportunities to train and develop yourself and your teammates.”
Miller said he continues to be “inspired” by Wright-Patt’s dedicated team of Airmen, civilians and family members.
“I appreciate all that you do for the team and Air Force,” Miller said.
Miller closed out his commander’s call by presenting several awards and recognizing recent promotions and achievements.
To see the full list of award recipients, go to the 88th Air Base Wing’s Facebook page @WPAFB.