Team Dover? Or Team Dover! Published Oct. 15, 2009 By Lt. Col. Tom Loper 436th OSS acting commander DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Team Dover! How many times have you heard that? Does it make you roll your eyes? Don't worry, I understand, I've been there. When I showed up at Dover AFB the first time 16 years ago as a second lieutenant I had the same reaction. Now at Dover for the third time, I've had some unique opportunities to see the true meaning of Team Dover. I'd like to share some of those experiences and hopefully help you share that vision. A timely topic, I've now been through two Commander in Chief's Annual Award for Installation Excellence competitions. The first as a group point of contact, where I was quickly introduced to folks from all over the base that came together to formulate a winning game plan. Truly a team effort, it seemed like everyone had a piece of the puzzle that was needed to complete the picture. In particular, having never really worked with civil engineering or force support (Services at the time), I was amazed at their span of responsibility across the base and the willingness to jump in and get the job done. As I traveled with my evaluation team, I saw presentations from every group and I was truly impressed by how each unit was focused on improvement, not just for show, but to do the mission better. I had the privilege of participating in the most recent CINC IEA competition as a commander and it was a special experience because it's not often you get to shamelessly brag about your squadron, your people and their accomplishments. People all over the base showed enthusiasm and pride in what they do. As it turned out, the strongest briefings I heard centered on how we are making things better, not just for a particular office or section, but how that improvement benefited the entire base and mission as a whole. The participation of multiple organizations in each briefing really brought that home. Another great example of Team Dover is our C-5M Super Galaxy program that is now entering the Operational Test and Evaluation Phase. A year ago we were faced with a daunting challenge when we had to figure out how to bring in this new weapon system and keep the current mission going uninterrupted with no increase in manning. Never have the 436th and 512th Airlift Wings worked more closely. We've successfully taken existing relationships and built a truly seamless team. In fact, we haven't flown a single training or operational mission that wasn't operated by a rainbow crew from both wings. While we already had working relationships between operations and maintenance, we opened new lines of communication that truly brought us together as a team to allow each unit to meet their training needs. With only two C-5Ms, we had daily, if not hourly, discussions to ensure we were best using our limited assets. By bringing each organization's strengths to the table, we've built a program from the ground up with little guidance from headquarters and an unrelenting C-5B pace of operations, all without missing a beat. While it's been great that I've seen this teamwork, how do you get to see it for yourself? You've got to go out and get involved with the rest of the team. I emphasize this to all of our newcomers. We have a diverse squadron, just like the base, and if you don't go make an effort to get out of your section you won't get to see what makes us Team Dover. There are a variety of organizations that offer the opportunity to join your peers and learn how the other half lives and works. Dover Airmen Against Drunk Driving, Airman's Attic, Top 3, Air Force Sergeants Association, Company Grade Officers Council and Airlift/Tanker Association are just a few examples of how you can get involved. I challenge you to go out find out how you fit into Team Dover.