Weekly commander's message Published May 19, 2017 By Brig. Gen. Paul W. Tibbets IV 509th Bomb Wing commander WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Greetings, Team Whiteman!On Monday it was great to meet with our team’s 50 newest graduates during our All Schools Graduation Ceremony! Earning a degree, whether it is from the Community College of the Air Force or a bachelor’s degree program, is a major accomplishment and it was an honor to celebrate alongside you and your families. Having an advanced degree sets you apart from your peers, and it makes you a more effective Airman, leader and innovator -- which is exactly what our service and our wing needs! Congratulations again and thanks to all the families, commanders, supervisors, and first sergeants who motivated these Airmen to continue their education! In addition, this week our Total Force team had the privilege of hosting Mr. Dan Clark, who is one of the most sought after motivational speakers in the world! As a contributing author to the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series, Dan provided our team with an engaging and fresh perspective on resiliency that will have a lasting impact for many members of our team. I hope those who heard him speak on Tuesday have internalized his messages, and that you have found ways to transform those themes into impactful action in your own lives!Yesterday, our team participated in a readiness exercise designed to validate our ability to respond to a threat to our installation and assets. This exercise confirmed once again the incredible professionalism and expertise of our first responders, as the exercise was a huge success. Thanks to everyone who planned and participated in the exercise … and to our first responders for always being vigilant and ready! Speaking of our first responders, throughout the week our Security Forces Squadron has been hosting events celebrating National Police Week, which honors the service and the sacrifices of past and present law enforcement officers. The week will culminate today at 4:30 p.m. at Mission’s End Club with a retreat ceremony featuring Chief Richard Lockhart, Warrensburg’s Chief of Police … if you are free, please come show your support for our Defenders! Lastly, tomorrow is Armed Forces Day. In the 1940s, President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country. Simply put, Armed Forces Day is about you and your families. Always remember that millions of Americans are incredibly grateful for what you do for our great nation, not just on Armed Forces Day, but every day. If you are looking for a memorable way to spend Armed Forces Day, Sedalia is hosting its annual Lieutenant George Whiteman Remembrance Ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery. As always, enjoy your weekend, be safe, and look out for your Wingmen! Defend … Avenge!NukePAUL W. TIBBETS IVBrigadier General, USAFCommander, 509th Bomb Wing