Command chief: A look at 2010 Published Jan. 8, 2010 By Chief Master Sgt. Angelica Johnson 30th Space Wing command chief VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Happy New Year! I hope everyone returned safely from a much-deserved break. Now that we're through the holidays, it's time to gear up for 2010. We've got a lot to look forward to this year, but, to be successful, we'll need to maintain focus on the mission and be flexible as we adopt new changes. There are a few things I'd like to highlight as we prepare for the next 12 months. Our mission is our first priority, and already we have several launches scheduled on the range. This year will see intercontinental ballistic missile launches, a Missile Defense Agency interceptor test, a NASA climate research satellite mission and the launch of a Delta IV Heavy. As we strive to transition to new systems and policies, let's not forget that our primary reason for being is to deliver combat capability to the joint warfighter through unrivaled space power. Behind our mission is our people, and our leadership is committed to providing them a quality standard of living. In 2010, we'll continue our effort to replace and renew facilities and infrastructure so that our residents and employees get what they need and deserve. This year will see a major construction project at the Lompoc Gate, which will limit traffic to only inbound commercial and government vehicles until June 2010. The Base Exchange and Burger King will also receive upgrades in the coming months. We'll continue to execute our American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects on base, focusing on water systems, roofing and energy. And we'll stay the course with our privatized housing developments. These endeavors will no doubt cause disruptions to our routines, but let's stay positive and remember that we're making this a better base for ourselves and future generations. In 2010, we'll experience some changes in the Air Force fitness program. Already, Air Staff has released new guidance pertaining to the wear of the improved and original physical training uniforms. Here at Vandenberg, these changes are in full effect, and our Military Clothing Sales Store expects to receive additional shipments of the Improved PTU in the near future. Also in 2010, our physical fitness standards will change. For the first six months, members will be graded based on the old physical fitness standards; however, members will also receive scores for reference based on the new physical fitness standards. The new standards will become effective July 1. Additionally, trained civilians in the 30th Force Support Squadron's Fitness Assessment Cells will conduct testing biannually. It's absolutely critical for all Airmen to be aware of these changes in their entirety and adjust workouts and nutrition as needed. A necessary evil in our line of work is an endless cycle of farewells, and this year we'll say goodbye to two very important people. Both our 30th Space Wing commander and vice commander will transition to new assignments in 2010. Col. David Buck and Col. Steven Winters have made tremendous and lasting contributions to our base and they will be sorely missed; but, we're excited to greet their successors and give them our full support. Here's to 2010!