Keep the spirit alive Published Dec. 2, 2010 By Col. Allison Marshall 908th Airlift Wing MSG MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- It's been four great years of hard work, long hours, and great relationships. Unfortunately, it's time to leave my temporary home at Maxwell Air Force Base and return to New Orleans, La. But before I do, I'd like to take a few moments to bid you all farewell. I'd like to thank Col. Shepherd (and of course Col. Clark) and his staff for their confidence, trust, and wise counsel. I'd like to thank my fellow group commanders, Colonels Jennings, von Hoffman, and Phillips for their patience, cooperation, and understanding during some very difficult and trying times. I'd like to thank Colonels Killough and Bargery for giving the Mission Support Group a seat at their table to find ways to help each other. I'd like to thank my family for their love and support. I couldn't have done this job and have a little fun in my life without them. And most of all, thank you 908th Mission Support Group -- staff (especially Lt. Col. Mumford), commanders, supervisors, first sergeants, and Airmen. It's been an honor, privilege, and pleasure in serving you and serving with you. You had the greatest training challenges and the least amount of time to accomplish them. Yet you found a way to get the job done and I am proud of you. You've done everything I've asked you to do and then some. I won't forget it. I've borrowed a lot time from family, friends, and my business to be here for you. It was worth it because you deserve that and more. To Col. Peterson, it's your house now. My sole intent was to leave a solid foundation for you to build the next level and I hope I've done that for you. And finally to all a quote by Albert Schweitzer: "In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit." Traditional Reservists, ARTs and civilians of the 908th Airlift Wing, in one way or another, each of you has continuously rekindled my inner spirit. Farewell and best wishes.