Town Hall Meeting with Air Force Reserve Commander

  • Published
  • By Capt. Rebecca A. Garcia
  • 459th ARW Public Affairs
Andrews Air Force Base, Md --  Lt. Gen. Charles E. Stenner Jr., commander of Air Force Reserve Command visited the 459th Air Refueling Wing Dec. 5 for a town hall meeting where he met with Airmen during their monthly drill, encouraging them to ask questions regarding any AFRC issues or concerns.

The General's remarks indicated where he sees U.S. Air Force Reserve forces within the larger force structure - a Strategic Reserve of "Citizen Warriors," and where he sees the mission of the 459th ARW.

Questions were asked regarding the war in Afghanistan and increases in the deployment tempo and the use of Reserve forces. "The war is ongoing and it's one we cannot afford to lose. It requires an 'all present and accounted for' approach from all three air components, guard, reserve and active duty. And, the reserve is fully committed to the fight."

"First and foremost, I see us as a Strategic Reserve that we leverage every day to provide an operational force rotation capability that is sustainable and predictable, so the force doesn't break."

General Stenner emphasized the importance of employers to the Reserve capability while outlining the three parts of the "Citizen warrior's" life. "It is crucial that we maintain balance by managing the triad: reserve job, civilian job, and family," said General Stenner. "For reservists, this relationship is similar to a three-legged stool because without the firm support of any of these components it cannot be properly sustained."

Of primary concern to 459th ARW Airmen, questions were asked about the modernization of the KC-135 and the tanker mission here at the wing. General Stenner said the tanker mission is an enduring mission with nothing but growth. The modernization of the fleet is a number one priority.

"The KC-135 is projected to be around for some time. It may be that the last pilot of the last tanker has not yet been born. We can't wait ' until then to modernize the fleet," said General Stenner.

General Stenner ended the Town Hall meeting with notes on professional development for Airmen, both enlisted and officer. Every Airman was stated as responsible for developing themselves personally and professionally with development plans being key. He said that a top job is obtainable if you compete. To be a senior leader there are certain items that must be accomplished outside of the wing level: have a numbered Air Force, major command and national capital region experience; be a commander or senior leader; have joint experience; find a mentor and listen to your mentor."

Not everyone will want or be able to do the items necessary to be competitive for some top positions, so it is important to keep in mind when creating a development plan that "Force development is not 'forced;' it is an agreement," said General Stenner.