RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
As early as the Revolutionary War, America's merchant marine carried cargo to help defend our national interests.
From the earliest modes of transportation to today's high-speed $175-trillion-dollar transportation infrastructure in the U.S., transportation professionals across the nation work every day to ensure these many systems run smoothly and continue to protect our homeland.
This year, Randolph will recognize the annual National Transportation Week Sunday through May 17, beginning with a proclamation to be signed by the 12th Flying Training Wing commander, Col. Jacqueline Van Ovost.
"Our transportation system here at Randolph Air Force Base models that which you would find in a small city," said James Williams, 12th Logistics Readiness Division director. "We provide everything from school buses, military taxi, airline reservations and dispatch drivers to distinguished visitor transportation, deployment travel arrangements, staff vehicles and a pilot and crew shuttle service."
The small shop of 90 vehicle maintenance and operations employees here keeps an entire vehicle fleet ready to go at all times, while having crews on duty six days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
"We want to recognize and celebrate the achievements and hard work of all of Randolph's transportation team," Colonel Van Ovost said. "They are the invisible piece of our operation, which keeps us moving everyday."
This year, the National Transportation Week will focus on bringing communities together through awareness about the importance of transportation through education. At Randolph, members from the 12th LRD are scheduled to meet with third-and fourth-grade elementary school children to educate them on the impact transportation has on each of their lives.
"We're looking forward to having members of the 12th LRD come to our school and talk to us," David Gibbs, Randolph Elementary School vice principal said. "They support all our needs as a school with enthusiasm, cooperation and an outstanding safety record. The children benefit from their service to and from school, but really, it's everyone who benefits from all their hard work."
America's transportation network has come a long way since its early beginnings. According to the Department of Transportation's Web site, even in the 52 years since former President Dwight D. Eisenhower began the Interstate Highway System public works project America's transportation network has changed dramatically.
"Regardless of the mode of transportation, our most important resource are the people who make sure demands get met and requirements get filled," Mr. Williams said. "We take a lot of pride in the fact that everything we do is in support of the mission of Team Randolph."
"Transportation Requirements can change very quickly, but we take it in stride and keep on completing our mission."