Building together...for the long haul

by Brig. Gen. Thomas W. Kula

Commanding General

Southwestern Division

Pacesetter Team,

You have been uppermost in our minds and hearts during the last 10 days, as we have worked through the turbulent times of a government shutdown. Our Chief of Engineers, Lt. Gen. Bostick, puts you first when he talks about his concerns on the shutdown, and I echo his thoughts, as do all the leadership in the Southwestern Division and across the Corps of Engineers.

We know that you are the builders who put the strength into the “Building Strong” motto, and we want you with us now, and in the future. 

As we work through these times—and more changes are surely to come—remember these things:

·       Communicate, communicate, communicate—up and down the chain of command, and in every direction;

·       Stay within and follow the guidance;

·       Take care of your people and one another.

We will get through these times, and emerge a more resilient organization on the other side.  It might not seem like it right now, but our perspective will change with each challenge we overcome. 

What is important is that we stay together as the great Pacesetter team, remembering that we are here for one another.  We need each one of you...today, tomorrow, and for the long haul.

Please provide this to all our team mates who are currently furloughed.