36th Wing vice commander departs Andersen Published Oct. 26, 2007 ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Open letter to Team Andersen: As you may have heard by now, my family and I received short-notice orders last week to Minot AFB, N.D., where I will trade in my flip-flops and shorts for Mukluk's and Parka and serve as the commander of the 5th Bomb Wing. I'm excited to lead the Warbirds and work with old and new friends, but it's with mixed emotions that Deborah, Katie, and I depart. I want to take this opportunity to say goodbye to those of you I may have missed saying goodbye to this past week. At Andersen I've been privileged not only to work with an exceptional commander and command team, but with you, the thousands of Airman and civilian warriors and families who do such important work on this vital piece of ground. Andersen's and Guam's patriotic servicemembers and citizens are in the spotlight, and deservedly so, as we cooperate with regional allies and provide security and stability in the Pacific. Thank you for your perseverance, sacrifices and leadership and for friendships we'll treasure until we see you again. We also want to thank our generous community partners and bid a fond farewell to the new friends we've made. Remember that the Air Force is in the fight every day, and it's the exceptional professionalism and pride each of your bring to your unique jobs that protect our Nation in unpredictable times and in this critical region. Lead where you are--do the right thing always--and serve one another. It's been a pleasure. Sincerely, JOEL S. WESTA, Colonel, USAF and The Westa family