Evolution, not revolution: CSAF discusses focus areas, receives Osan immersion

OSAN AIR BASE, 41, SOUTH KOREA

11.02.2016

Story by Senior Airman Victor J. Caputo  

51st Fighter Wing

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea - Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein visited Osan Oct. 30 – 31 during an immersion tour of the base and its capabilities.

Goldfein, who was sworn in as the 21st chief of staff in July, learned about 7th Air Force and the 51st Fighter Wing missions firsthand, hearing from dedicated experts in a variety of fields throughout the base while passing on information about what is happening at higher headquarters to help ease the burden on the force.

One of the most emphasized pieces of the Team Osan mission was the strong alliance with the Republic of Korea air force members also stationed here.

“I could not be prouder of the men and women here at Osan and what you are doing every single day,” said Goldfein. “It’s an unpredictable challenge to the north, [but] it’s an incredible alliance that we have in place here.”

Goldfein hosted an all-call at the end of his immersion, sharing his views and experiences with hundreds of Airmen. He stressed that one of his top priorities is to revitalize squadrons, and he explained why he believes it is so important.

“Most Airmen, when they first enter a unit, it’s at the squadron level and that’s where they get the culture of an Airman,” said Goldfein.

Goldfein also addressed a prevalent complaint that Airman have been voicing for years: an overabundance of ancillary and computer-based training. He was pleased to announce that almost 25,000 Airmen were surveyed about 42 courses, resulting in the elimination of 15 and streamlining or consolidation of 16 CBTs.

“This is just the beginning,” said Goldfein. “We’re going to keep swinging at this for the next four years until we get the balance right.”

Base leadership highlighted that the tight-knit nature of many of the squadrons at Osan are what makes the units so strong and cohesive.

“We have an unbeatable team, and they took advantage of this incredibly unique opportunity to show Gen. Goldfein the critical role they play in executing our PACAF commander’s goals and priorities while deterring any possible threats to regional stability,” said Col. Andrew Hansen, 51st FW commander. “We were honored to host him during his first visit here as CSAF.”

• Date Taken: 11.02.2016
• Date Posted: 11.01.2016 19:58
• Story ID: 213541
• Location: OSAN AIR BASE, 41, KR