18th AF visits

25 Apr 2007 | Tech. Sgt. Sabrina Foster

As a resident of the Scott Air Force Base community, the 18th Air Force commander knows exactly why the 375th Airlift Wing is Air Mobility Command's showcase wing. So when Maj. Gen. James Hawkins and his wife Linda visited the wing Friday, they focused on the Airmen who make global mobility happen.


The day began with a medal ceremony for two Scott warriors who excelled while deployed. General Hawkins presented Bronze Star medals to Maj. Tim Tole, 375th Security Forces Squadron commander, and Maj. James Osterhout, 458th Airlift Squadron assistant director of operations.


"These are just two of the many outstanding Airmen in the 375th Airlift Wing doing great things in support of the Global War on Terrorism," said General Hawkins. "Their selfless dedication and commitment to excellence didn't go unnoticed," he said.


The general had a first-hand look at 18th AF and 375th AW Airmen's contributions to GWOT when he visited the Central Command area of responsibility last month.


"Mobility Airmen have an infectious warrior attitude," said General Hawkins. "They are very eager to defend the country and are very excited about the mission over there."
"The Airmen are very competent in their jobs; whether its convoy duty with our sister services, disarming explosive ordnance devices or flying C-21 missions. I was very excited to see the young men and women serving," he said.


After the ceremony, General and Mrs. Hawkins got a behind-the scenes look at many of the 375th AW's facilities, including the hospital, the Airman and Family Readiness Center and Patriots Landing Housing.


While visiting the wing, General Hawkins discussed the importance of AFSO21 to the 18th AF and Scott Airmen.


"AFSO21 is a very important initiative as the Air Force prepares to drawdown. The amount of work and the mission are not changing, so we must find ways to work more efficiently with fewer resources." It's all about changing our way of thinking. We need to get the young Airmen thinking of ways we can perform our tasks smarter and more effectively so we can make better use of our time."


The general enjoyed touring 375th AW facilities, but said the highlight of his visit was the people he met.

"I always enjoy meeting with the young Airmen and junior NCOs," said General Hawkins. "I am always excited to hear the issues they have for me. The pride the young Airmen take in their work is very encouraging to me. They are the future leaders of the Air Force and their concerns are very important to me," he said.