Get Ready, Stay Ready…

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Jim DeHaan
  • 3rd Airlift Squadron
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Are you ready? You might be asking yourself, "for what?" The answer may be different for everyone but there are some issues common to everyone. Readiness is much more than making sure your mobility folder is up-to-date, or staying current for all your shots, it should play a role in most aspects of your life.

Most of you have probably heard someone say, "what if you get hit by a bus?" Most of the time they were making the argument that you should always wear clean underwear (which is important) but there's a bigger lesson here. Is your vRED up-to-date? Did your family situation change requiring a change to your SGLI beneficiaries? Do you have a will? Get Ready, Stay Ready...

Recently the 3rd Airlift Squadron was given a short-notice tasking to deliver manpower and cargo to Mali to stop the advancement of terrorist organizations in that country. There was nothing special about the aircrew chosen to fly that mission. Headquarters simply picked off the next available crew and gave them the new mission. We train to fly anything, anywhere, anytime. This crew was ready. The Maintenance Group provided us an aircraft that was ready to go. The Medical Group was prepared to provide unique support to this crew due to the operating locations. The Mission Support Group provided their usual world class support including specialized communications equipment, transportation and security. Team Dover was ready!

Are you ready if a unique assignment opportunity presents itself? Have you completed all the appropriate level PME? Started seeking higher education? Sought out additional professional development? Wouldn't it be a shame to have an opportunity come up and not be ready to accept it? Get Ready, Stay Ready...

Most people include a famous quote in their articles so I looked for an applicable one here. After searching high and low I found one Will Smith uses frequently (yes, the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air), "If you stay ready, you ain't gotta get ready." Get Ready, Stay Ready...