Colonel Gandy hosts 95th ABW commander’s call

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Julius Delos Reyes
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The 95th Air Base Wing's top officer held his last commander's call for the year 2008 on Dec. 11 at the base theater. 

Col. Jerry Gandy, 95th ABW commander, focused his commander's call on holiday safety and personal risk management. 

"Talk to each other about your travel plans for the holidays," Colonel Gandy said. "Talk about personal risk management. Take the time to sit and talk about it. You will never know when you get the chance to save somebody from doing something unsafe." 

As part of holiday safety, Colonel Gandy talked to Wing personnel regarding driving under the influence, its effects and the base's programs to address this, including a designated driver's program called Airmen Against Drunk Driving. The AADD program provides a free, anonymous ride to all servicemembers, Department of Defense civilians, base contractors and family members by calling 277-AADD or 275-AADD. Pick-up areas include Edwards, Rosamond, Lancaster, Tehachapi, Mojave, Palmdale and California City. 

"The cost of a DUI is felt immediately and for years; even if you don't have an accident," the colonel said. 

Another safety issue Colonel Gandy tackled is motorcycle safety, where he reiterated motorcycle enthusiasts should have the proper training and appropriate gear whether on or off base. 

Colonel Gandy also shared the stage with three group commanders to talk about their various programs, mission and their achievements. 

Col. Darrell Riggs, 95th Mission Support Group commander, talked about information security, travel safety and updates on the group's facilities. These facilities include new base fitness center, Child Development Center expansion, replacement of playgrounds and new gym equipment. 

Meanwhile, Col. Janet Taylor, 95th Medical Group commander, provided information about the base clinic such as making an appointment, cares after hours and the nurse line. 

Col. John Odey, 95th Communications Group commander, talked about personal identifiable information, proper use of encryption, Privacy Act information and Operations Security. 

Colonel Gandy concluded his commander's call with a reminder to be safe and have fun during the holidays. 

"Have a safe and happy holiday," Colonel Gandy said. "Relax while you can and recharge your batteries. Take your time to appreciate the great things you have and thank the people around you, your friends and your families."