Rep. Skelton bids Team Whiteman farewell

  • Published
  • By Heidi Hunt
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Congressman Ike Skelton, U.S. Representative to Missouri's 4th District, met with a standing-room, only crowd of Airmen, Sailors and Soldiers Dec. 9 to thank Team Whiteman members and community leaders for their support and service.

The 17-year Congressman visited this Air Force Global Strike Command base during a farewell tour of his district.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank you for what you do, to thank your predecessors, to those who flew the B-47, for those who man the missile and for all the missions you hold [at Whiteman] today," said Representative Skelton. "Over the span of my career, I have had the opportunity to be with, work with and work for the men and women in uniform. It's been the highlight of my career."

Brig. Gen. Scott Vander Hamm introduced Representative Skelton and expressed his appreciation for the man whose name can be recognized throughout the base.

"He has served us in many, many ways," General Vander Hamm said. "He has provided resources to us in uniform and has been an advocate for the men and women in uniform who serve around the world. We would not be where we are today without him."

In addition to his gratitude, Representative Skelton shared a deep concern and cautioned servicemembers and civilians.

"You have a great challenge ahead of you, keep doing what you're doing to get better at what you are doing because there are adversaries out there," Representative Skelton said. "We must always be prepared. George Washington once said if you want peace, prepare for war. I fully believe that is solid advice."

His farewell speech was followed by a reception hosted in his honor by the Whiteman Base Community Council.

During the reception, Representative Skelton continued his theme by reminding base personnel to stay focused on the mission and continued to thank military members for their service.

"We have the finest military this world has ever seen," Representative Skelton said. "I can't thank you enough for what you have done, what your predecessors have done, and for all that those that follow you will do," Representative Skelton said. "You today are setting the example for future young men and women who will be here. Many of you have been deployed, some several times. That is a real stress on families and on yourselves. A little appreciation is needed."