New commander poised for AFDW's future

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Frank Gorenc
  • Air Force District of Washington commander
Andrews AFB, D.C. --  Today I took command of the Air Force District Washington. Sharon and I would like to thank everyone for the great welcome. I am thrilled for the opportunity to command AFDW and build upon your accomplishments under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Robert Smolen.

I am eager to get out and meet with you over the next few weeks. In the meantime, I wanted to express a few thoughts. AFDW is my fifth command tour and previous experience validates my view that the heart and soul of any unit is firmly rooted in our people the business of the Air Force is uniquely a human endeavor. Success requires professional military and civilian Airmen focused by the MISSION.

A professional Airman is an ...

Airman who embraces integrity, service before self and excellence in all endeavors.
Airman who trusts their leadership, respects their peers and mentors their subordinates.
Airman who is loyal, well-trained and confident.
Airman able to subordinate individual aspirations to team goals.
Airman, leader and follower, who maintains mission focus and is dedicated to making our Air Force better day by day.

The AFDW mission is clear and simple:
Superior service ... Always.
Swift support to civilian authority ... When Asked.
Effective contingency response ... When Needed.

To command is a great honor and a privilege, and I want you to know that this is a huge moment for me. I am humbled by this opportunity and the shear magnitude of the responsibility.

I pledge my best effort to live up to your expectations. In turn, I will ask you to live up to mine. The Air Force District of Washington has built a lasting legacy as a compliment to the command of General Smolen; we all have our responsibilities and together we will continue that legacy of accomplishment.

I look forward to working with you. Thanks.