ACC director of logistics visits, observes operations

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brigitte N. Brantley-Sisk
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The Air Combat Command director of logistics recently visited to get a better understanding of Moody's day-to-day logistical operations.

Maj. Gen. Judith Fedder spent her day-long trip visiting many different logistics-related shops on base and being updated in new happenings.

"My visit actually had two purposes," said the general. "First, I wanted to see and understand what the 23rd Wing is focusing on as well as to find out what ACC logistics can do to help them. Second, I wanted to meet and thank the Airmen for contributing to our success and everything else they do."

It is these personal interactions with Airmen that General Fedder said she enjoys the most during her base visits.

"Sometimes it can be difficult to communicate appreciation over the phone or through e-mail," she said. "It's important to meet face-to-face because along with getting to meet the Airmen, I get to actually observe and learn what is going on."

One of the stops General Fedder made was to the 23rd Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle maintenance compound, where she was taught about biodiesel fuel usage by one of the Airmen there.

"I was glad I was chosen to give the general the information on the fuel," said Airman 1st Class Ryan Kind, 23rd LRS vehicle maintenance journeyman. "She said she hadn't been aware of the challenges that we are facing when using biodiesel and it was good being the one to make her aware of them."

Someone who has been in the career field a little longer also thinks it's beneficial when senior leaders visit, especially concerning the importance of it.

"The logistics career field is vital in moving everything in the Air Force, including people, vehicles and other equipment," said Joe Mitchell, 23rd LRS vehicle fleet manager. "So it's good when the people who make decisions that affect us come and are sincerely interested in learning about the operations of our unit."

During her visit, the general also had a sit-down luncheon with logistics officers to discuss topics such as budgetary concerns, becoming a well-rounded officer and the career field's top priorities.

In addition, she recognized several Airmen by presenting them with her coin throughout the day's visit. These Airmen were chosen because of notable accomplishments, such as being selected for a below-the-zone promotion or completing their Community College of the Air Force degree.

"The work that everyone under the 23rd WG does is wonderful," said the general. "All the maintainers and logisticians are vital to the success of deployed forces, from supporting the troops on the ground to contributing to rescue missions."

General Fedder has been chosen for reassignment as the director of logistics as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Installations and Mission Support, at Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. She will be replaced by Brig. Gen. Mark Atkinson, who is currently serving as the Headquarters U.S. Air Forces in Europe director of logistics.