A New Year

  • Published
  • By Col. Thomas Kunkel, Commander
  • 23d Wing
In 2016 the 23d Wing deployed over 1,400 skilled warriors and 125 aircraft to 27 different countries to meet the needs of the Combatant Commanders. We provided support for Operations Inherent Resolve, Atlantic Resolve, Freedom’s Sentinel, and NATOs Resolute Support mission. We are at the forefront of today’s global fight, always out front with a professional hunger to answer the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The demand for our airpower across the globe will likely not decrease and I need each of you to continue to train and be ready to answer that call. I know your time is valuable and I’ve challenged leadership across the wing to find ways to accomplish things more efficiently and effectively, and when necessary scale (up or down) as requirements and resources change (manning, deployments, taskings, etc.) In line with this objective, I've also charged all 23d Wing leaders to improve communication at every level (especially when organizations must scale). I believe it’s vitally important that our Airmen and their families are informed with not only the 'what' is going to impact them, but also the ‘why’.  

We are the Flying Tigers; we will continue to innovate at every level and be pace setters for our Air Force. If I haven’t had the opportunity to tell you personally, it is an honor and privilege to serve with each of you every day. I look forward to tackling the challenges of 2017 alongside you as we continue to Deploy Skilled Warriors, Develop Courageous Leaders, Care for Airmen and their Families and Prepare for Tomorrow …so that we may… Attack, Rescue, and Prevail!