SecAF visits Moody

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ryan Callaghan
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James experienced Moody's close air support and combat search and rescue capabilities first hand during her visit to Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Feb. 28.

James met with commanders, chiefs, Airmen and congressional leaders then became personally acquainted with Moody's capabilities during a demonstration at nearby Grand Bay Bombing and Gunnery Range.

During the demonstration, James witnessed joint terminal air controllers organize A-10C Thunderbolt II strafing runs on simulated enemy targets and personnel recovery via HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters.

"I hear about Airmen and what they do, the platforms and the weapon systems, but there really is no substitute for getting out in the field and talking directly to the pilots, the maintainers and all of our support personnel," James said.

James also saw the effectiveness of the 23rd Mission Support Group's explosive ordnance disposal flight and the military working dog program, as well as the 23rd Medical Group's mission.

"Priority No. 1 for me truly is taking care of people ... because they underpin everything that we do. We're going nowhere if you don't have the right people in the right jobs," she said.

The secretary finished her visit by hosting an all call for Moody Airmen, where she presented the Distinguished Flying Cross to Capt. Ian Osterreicher, 74th Fighter Squadron A-10C Thunderbolt pilot, for his actions while deployed in Afghanistan. Osterreicher was recognized for his combat actions that saved the lives of at least 60 American soldiers.

During her all call the secretary outlined her priorities for the force, discussed force shaping and pending budget changes before taking questions from the crowd. James ended her discussion by thanking the Airmen for their service and expressing her gratitude for being able to visit Moody.

"It was enormously helpful for my own understanding and [I was] extremely impressed to see just how hard our Airmen are working and how accomplished all of you are," she added.