MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, S.C. - Major General Thomas R. Moore, the commanding general of the Georgia Air National Guard, visited Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, June 10.
During the visit, Moore toured the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 hangar and pilot training center. He was able to walk through the classrooms, sit in the F-35 simulator, and learn about the classroom setup, schedule and equipment that will be used by student pilots.
“The facilities here in Beaufort are world class,” said Moore. “It’s important for us to work with Beaufort here and at the Townsend Bombing Range.”
The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is a next generation aircraft intended to replace the F-18, F-16, AV-8B and A-10, as well as several other flying platforms as the United States and allies transition into fifth generation air fleets.
Townsend Bombing Range is located in McIntosh County, Ga., and is 5,183 acres. The bombing range provides realistic target and hostile threat environment training for the military, including air-to-ground training, low-angle strafing training, close air support training and electronic warfare.
“You guys getting new jets and facilities keeps us busy at the range and we appreciate y’all having us up for a visit,” said Moore.
The Marine Corps is committed to training thoroughly under realistic circumstances and maintaining communication and interoperability with other military services.