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CSAF visits 162nd Wing: fields questions and thanks Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Gregory Ferreira
  • 162nd Wing Public Affairs
TUCSON, Ariz. --  Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and his wife Betty visited the Arizona Air National Guard's 162nd Wing on March 24 to discuss wing missions and meet service members.

Welsh met with wing members during an all call and spoke about the role the Guard plays in the future of the Air Force. He also fielded questions presented by Airmen from different walks of life and gave his perspective on how to overcome challenges. 

The chief of staff got a first-hand look at the roles Airmen from the 162nd Wing play in the Air National Guard. 

Five top performers, one from each group joined Welsh during a mission brief and represented what it means to be a 162nd Wing Airman. Welsh expressed his appreciation for these performers.

"Thanks for all the contributions you have made to the Wing," said Welsh.

Welsh recognized the unique characteristic of the close family bond that is embedded within the Guard.

"At Guard units you feel the country; Guard units have a special family feel," said Welsh, who mentioned Guard units have generations of family members serving at the same unit.

A topic Welsh covered during the all call was the importance of pride in every Airman serving in today's Air Force. The relevance of every Airman serving in the Air Force was a common theme discussed by the General. 

Pride begins here and each Airman should remember how critically important they are to the Air Force, said Welsh.

Welsh also said it's important to listen to new ideas and to focus on people, as our Airmen are at the heart of every Air Force mission.

Col. Howard Purcell Commander of the 162nd Wing, appreciated the visit and support from the Chief of Staff of the Air Force.

"The CSAF's visit to Tucson and the 162nd highlights the incredible importance of our Wing's Airmen and missions to our country's present and future national strategy," said Purcell.

"My key takeaway from the all call was that the CSAF and his wife truly care about all our Airmen, and have a solid plan for the continued success of our Air Force," said Purcell.