First impressions in the Land of Lincoln Published Jan. 18, 2012 By Col. Albert V. Lupenski 932nd Airlift Wing SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Well, the men and women of the 932 AW don't need a second chance with me. As I complete my first full month on station it is apparent that the pride and professionalism I have witnessed over the past several weeks is the hallmark of this Wing. The reputation I had heard about has been validated. I could tell immediately, as I sat on the stage during my change of command, that excellence is not just something that the 932 AW talks about. The precision of the Wing formation was by far the most impressive I have seen in my career. The planning, execution and attention to detail was incredible. So....first impression. In the next few weeks it became apparent that the concept of excellence is a way of life here at the 932 AW. As I continue to meet Wing members I become more and more impressed with the caliber of Airmen we have. My "first impression" is that this is a proud organization and it is my honor to be your Commander. As you all know we recently received our fourth C-40. It was a great event and what a way to show off our outstanding relationship with our partners in the 54 AS. The aircraft was delivered by the 73 AS Commander and the 54 AS Commander and met by both Wing Commanders. This fourth aircraft will give us additional capability to continue to provide the finest DV lift in the Air Force. We just returned from Washington DC where we met with members of Congress to tell our story and to share our concerns. I will tell you that they are working very hard and understand our mission here at the 932 AW and we have support at that level. We will continue these congressional outreach trips to ensure our message is out there. We continue to have our Airmen deployed all over the AOR and our Airmen continue to step and perform at the highest level. I want to personally thank all of you for your service and for your support of the ongoing effort to maintain our way of life. Additionally, I realize that your family often pays a price for your continued participation. Please thank them for me. They are an integral part of the team and their support and sacrifice does not go unnoticed. As we approach the holidays please take the opportunity to spend time with your family and friends. Family and friends are the key to resiliency. It is also important that we watch out for each other and ensure that we stay good wingmen. I have only been here several weeks so I have yet to meet everyone. You will see me around. I will be visible and accessible and am looking forward to meeting all of you. Please know that I am here to ensure that you have what you need to be the best at what you do. That is what I will do.