The Power of Your AF Family Published Oct. 31, 2012 By By Brig. Gen. Anthony J. Cotton Commander, 45th Space Wing PATRICK AFB. Fla. -- On behalf of all the women and men of Team Patrick-Cape, I would like to offer our sincere condolences to the Scott Family as they grieve the loss of their little Carsyn last week. Brian mentioned to me that he didn't realize what it meant to be part of the Air Force family until this tragedy struck his family. The outpouring of support from friends and strangers alike was tremendous. What the Scotts witnessed was the Air Force family at work - a family that sticks together in time of jubilation, or more importantly, when a fellow "family" member needs support. It makes us unique in society. It is something that each of you should cherish. I constantly hear it from those who have retired from military service; the camaraderie shared between active duty personnel and their families is not witnessed anywhere else. Team, please know that each of you, whether active duty, government civilian or dependent, are members of the Air Force family. This past September, our Air Force celebrated its 65th birthday. It also marks the 30th anniversary of Air Force Space Command. To commemorate the occasion, we will host an Air Force Ball Friday at the Radisson Resort in Cape Canaveral. Our guest speaker for the ball will be the Honorable James Clapper, the Director of National Intelligence. The theme for the ball is "Heritage: Honoring the Past, Innovating the Future." The ball committee has diligently worked for months and with nearly 600 tickets sold, it will truly be a memorable event. Finally, the Space Coast averted the major thrust of Hurricane Sandy this week. While we didn't experience any damage to mission assets or property, we did experience moderate damage to our Patrick beaches. Although reopened, I ask that everyone be mindful of the damage that includes crossover bridges over dunes, docks and walkways. Repairs are underway. Some beach accesses may be closed until the repairs are complete. Please be patient and safe as you enjoy our beaches. Continue to take care of each other, Sharks!