NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y. — During the June 6-7, 2026 Unit Training Assembly, U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Israel Nuñez, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of Air Force Reserve Command, and Command Chief Master Sergeant of Air Force Reserve Command, visited the 914th Air Refueling Wing here to meet with Airmen, gain insight into local operations, and discuss priorities impacting the Air Force Reserve enlisted force.
As the highest-ranking enlisted leader in the Air Force Reserve Command, Nuñez represents over 50,000 Total Force Airmen and serves as the enlisted advisor to the AFRC Commander. During his visit, he engaged with Airmen from across the 914th, discussing mission readiness, professional development, quality of life initiatives, and the evolving role of Reserve Airmen and the importance of their contributions to AFRC.
Enlisted Airmen and officers across the Wing spoke with Nuñez, showcased their operational capabilities, and highlighted recent accomplishments that have strengthened mission effectiveness. The visit also reinforced the importance of investing in enlisted Airmen so they have the resources needed to succeed both professionally and personally.
“Retention starts with taking care of our Airmen,” Nuñez said. “When Airmen feel valued and supported, they're more likely to stay, so investing in our people is essential.”
During his tour, Nuñez learned about the 914th ARW’s mission and its continued contributions to global air mobility. The Wing operates eight KC-135 Stratotankers and provides aerial refueling that extends the reach of U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide. The 914th serves as the host wing for NFARS and is one of AFRC’s key operational units supporting combatant commanders around the globe.
Niagara remains a vital component of AFRC in supporting aerial refueling operations while contributing significantly to the Western New York Community. The installation is home to approximately 3,000 military and civilian personnel and serves as the largest employer in Niagara County.
“Niagara has been on my list to visit for a while now, but for whatever reason, it's harder to get up here in the winter months,” Nuñez joked.
Nuñez’s visit to Niagara and the 914th demonstrated the importance of direct engagement between senior leadership and the Airmen who execute the mission every day. Meeting with Airmen across multiple career fields, touring facilities, and discussing challenges and successes firsthand, Nuñez gained valuable insight into the needs of the force here while ensuring Airmen had an opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences with AFRC leadership.
| Date Taken: | 12.31.1969 |
| Date Posted: | 06.11.2026 16:25 |
| Story ID: | 567466 |
| Location: | NIAGARA FALLS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIR RESERVE STATION, NEW YORK, US |
| Web Views: | 10 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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