-----Original Message-----
From: Myers, Arthur J SES AF/A1S
Sent: Friday, January 09, 2009 5:07 PM
-----PLEASE PASS TO ALL YOUR PERSONNEL-----
After sending out these announcements for well over 10 years, it's now time for
me to send the one I knew would come one day - my own. I have been selected for
and accepted a position in the Office of the Secretary of Defense (Personnel &
Readiness) as the Principal Director for Military Community and Family Policy,
and will begin the transition immediately. In this position, I will basically
oversee programs similar to what we have in Services but for all of the armed
forces and their families. I've been with the Air Force since I was 17 years
old and leave with a heavy heart. I have enjoyed a great career, beginning as
an Airman Basic washing pots and pans, all the way to becoming the Director of
Services. I was able to achieve this by having great mentors and working with
many great leaders and co-workers. I've never forgotten my roots and fully
understand that no matter what job you may have in an organization, they are all
VERY important. There are also no limits to what you can do in life if you do
it to the best of your ability, treat others with integrity and respect, OBTAIN
YOUR COLLEGE EDUCATION, and never be satisfied with your accomplishments - you
can always make things better.
My deputy, Mr. Chuck Milam, will assume temporary leadership of our organization
until personnel actions are complete. He began his career in 1980 as a GS-4
Recreation Assistant. He has a diversified background in all facets of our
organization from base level, to MAJCOM and Air Staff levels. He has been the
Director of Services at Lindsey AS, Germany, Edwards AFB, CA, Bolling AFB, DC,
and the Air Force Academy. He was also the Chief of the Program Policy Division
and Chief of the Strategic Plans Division on the Air Staff. He's received six
Meritorious Civilian Awards, the Exemplary Civilian Service Award and the Air
Force Services Senior Civilian Award in 1998 and 2004. He has an undergraduate
degree in Business and Management, a graduate degree in International Relations
and a Juris Doctorate degree. We've given Mr. Milam the toughest assignments
over the years, and he's done a stellar job at all of them. I know you will
give him your full support just as you have done for me over the years.
I could recognize countless numbers of other professionals who have worked
closely with me over the years. However, since I can't mention them all, I will
mention just one - Mr. Mike Kelly. Mike has been my constant Wingman for nearly
15 years. He has been a key player in just about every decision, project and
initiative we have undertaken. He served us well on active duty and retired as
a Colonel. Since then, he has been a civilian Division Chief who was always
given the toughest jobs to accomplish and ALWAYS exceeded our expectations.
Mike has been there for our organization and for me. He has my utmost
confidence, respect and friendship.
Thank you all for your support, hard work, professionalism and dedication. We
have achieved significant successes over the years as the result of YOUR
efforts. There is still a lot to be done, and I know you will continue to set
the standard in taking care of our most important weapon system and resource -
our Airmen and their families.
Please pass on my appreciation to your family and friends for all the support
they continue to provide you in your Air Force career. They are a key
ingredient in our success. I look forward to seeing you in the future. Take
care and stay safe. I will miss all of you............
Art
