JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md.— The Eighteenth Air Force command team visited the 89th Airlift Wing on Feb. 4, 2026, to engage with Airmen and assess the readiness and capabilities of their mission. The 89th AW provides unmatched global airlift, logistics, aerial port and communications support, enabling the President, Vice President, cabinet officials, combatant commanders and other senior leaders to project U.S. diplomacy and deterrence worldwide.
Throughout the day, Maj. Gen. Charles Bolton, 18th AF commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Arce, 18th AF command chief, toured key operational facilities and recognized outstanding performers across the SAM Fox wing. Their itinerary began with a breakfast with Airmen, followed by in-depth tours of the 89th Communications Squadron, 89th Maintenance Group, 89th Operations Group and the wing's Formal Training Unit, where they discussed ongoing innovation and capability advancements.
The visit concluded with an all-call led by Bolton and Arce, where they reinforced Air Mobility Command and 18th AF priorities. The command team also used the opportunity to present AMC-level awards and recognize star performers in person.
This direct engagement with the 89th AW reinforced the 18th AF’s commitment to supporting the wing as it continues to set the standard for executive airlift and project U.S. diplomacy and deterrence operations worldwide.