AMC: 24 years, still moving forward

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, IL, UNITED STATES

06.01.2016

Story by Candy C Knight 

Air Mobility Command

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The inactivation of Military Airlift Command and Strategic Air Command helped usher in a new era of airpower as Air Mobility Command formed from elements of these two organizations in June 1992.

During this time of transition, AMC became the lead command for air mobility and remains the lead after 24 years.

"Generally, we view anniversaries as a time to reflect on past accomplishments," said Gen. Carlton D. Everhart II, AMC commander. "For our anniversary, Air Mobility Command will not only reflect on our storied heritage, but build upon our proud heritage and continue to advance into the future."

Part of Everhart's pledge to advance AMC into the future began when he released his Rapid Global Mobility Vision. The vision focuses on the command's 20-year strategic vectors, which are aligned under the Air Force Strategic Vectors and U.S. Transportation Command's priorities.

"AMC Airmen execute the air mobility mission around the globe, enabling operational agility and flexibility for the warfighter, the diplomat, and our nation's partners," Everhart said. "We have and will continue to provide the timely movement, positioning, and sustainment of joint forces in a rapidly changing environment."

AMC's mission to execute Rapid Global Mobility and enable Global Reach has not changed during its relatively youthful existence. However, changes to the global landscape have brought many challenges and obstacles.

"Placing a renewed emphasis on readiness; growing and developing Airmen; modernization and the nuclear mission will aid mobility Airmen as they seek out new and innovative methods to continue the mission," the commander said.

AMC implemented a variety of courses and processes designed to invigorate Airmen development and maintain a state of readiness, which is necessary to meet the demand of a rapidly evolving and diverse mission.

"It's our responsibility to provide bold leadership in every facet of our mission in order to preserve the legacy of those before us and deliver the next generation of rapid global mobility," Everhart said. "We must innovate, evolve and adapt to the ever-changing environment, while also leveraging other investments in technology, human capital, and education, to remain the preeminent air mobility force in the future."

Although Air Mobility Command has existed for only 24 years, its lineage stretches much further back.

This lineage includes pioneering Airmen who, in 1929, used rudimentary aerial refueling to keep the Question Mark aloft for an unprecedented 150-plus hours; delivering more than 1.5 million tons of coal, food, and medical and other supplies during the Berlin Airlift; moving 856,208 short tons of cargo during the height of Operation Enduring Freedom; and ensuring the safe departure of military families.

From its humble beginnings, mobility history is rich with examples of Airmen delivering hope and assistance to people and nations during crises.

"Our charge is to provide 'Unrivaled Global Reach for America...always!' and we do this by preserving the legacy of those before us, as well as developing and delivering the next generation of [Rapid Global Mobility]," Everhart said. "Success in the future requires bold leadership today. Our nation needs it and our Airmen demand it; neither will be content with the status quo."

• Date Taken: 06.01.2016
• Date Posted: 03.21.2018 10:51
• Story ID: 270107
• Location: SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, IL, US