Commemorating the Berlin Airlift

The Air Force’s Air mobility leadership used the annual Phoenix Rally March 24-28 at MacDill AFB, Fla., to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift that began in June 1948. “The Berlin Airlift set the standards for which the Air Mobility Command operates today,” said Gen. Arthur Lichte, the commander of Air Mobility Command. “Back then, we had aircraft landing every three minutes and today we have aircraft taking off every 90 seconds. All around the world, AMC airmen and aircraft continue to bring hope to those in need.” Retired Col. Gail Halvorsen, who became famous as the Berlin Candy Bomber for dropping packets of candy to children of West Berlin, attended the rally, which brings together AMC’s senior leadership each year for professional development and to discuss lessons learned from the previous 12 months. “Today Air Mobility Command travels faster, farther, and with a greater load,” said Halvorsen. “But one thing hasn’t changed since 1948: The Airmen and their attitudes. They continue to exemplify integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do.” (MacDill report by SrA. Stephenie Wade)