Maj. Gen. Christopher J. Bence, commander of the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center, visited the base March 4, 2018 as part of a nine-day tour of various components of the 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing.
The 8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron, also known as “The Mighty Ocho,” was the final detachment visited — providing Bence an opportunity to learn about the day-to-day operations of the 8 EAMS, to observe how they complete their mission, and to commemorate a few selected Airmen for their outstanding performance.
“When a two-star general shakes your hand and gives you a coin and tells you you’re doing a great job, it just drives that point home,” said Lt. Col. Jason Wolff, commander of the 8 EAMS. “It really emphasizes that the work they’re doing has a global reach and that our tails and cargo go around the world.”
According to Wolff, the 8 EAMS services more than 1,000 aircraft per month. Despite the unit’s impact, lack of facilities and space are still hindrances to the mission. Visits from senior leadership provide an avenue for Airmen to voice their thoughts so their concerns can be “taken to that next level.”
After touring the facilities, Bence gave a presentation in which he outlined the mission of the Expeditionary Center and how the 8 EAMS falls into it. Airmen were given the opportunity to ask questions following the presentation.
“We’re able to complete our mission because of you all out here each and every day,” Bence said. “You’re ensuring high-speed velocity for mobility operations all around the world, so be very proud of that.”