Air Combat Command commander shares AF vision

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Sarah Pullen
  • 920th RQW
PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Gen. Mike Hostage, commander, Air Combat Command, and wife Kathy Hostage visit with the 920th Rescue Wing, Fla., July 15.

Hostage encouraged Airmen to aim high while the Air Force adapts to the changes and challenges that will accrue over the next 10 years.

"We are the best Air Force in the world and we know how to do business," Hostage said. We will adapt to the challenges to get the mission done."

During Hostage's stay with the 920th RQW he toured the flightline, the 920th Aeromedical Staging Squadron and the 308th Rescue Squadron.

Airmen had the opportunity to address concerns with Hostage during an enlisted members' lunch and again at an all call.

The hot topic discussed was the reshaping of the military and how it will affect  Airmen's military careers.

"Being that the 920th Rescue Wing's mission is unique to the Air Force, I don't foresee the reshaping affecting the rescue mission," Hostage said.

Many lives have been saved during peacetime and in the time of war because of the 920th RQW's critical mission, said Col. Jeffrey L. Macrander, commander, 920th RQW.

"You have a great mission and you have earned the right to say, 'These things we do, that others may live,'" Hostage said.

Leadership recognizes that the rescue mission is a difficult one and asks a lot of its members.

"We have a great mission that is done by great people, and there isn't a more rewarding mission better than what we do," Macrander said.

The 920th RQW's mission is the only one in the Department of Defense that is trained and equipped to conduct personnel recovery operations into hostile or denied areas.

"We are here to support our mission and love what we do," said Master Sgt. Blain Morgan, pararescuemen assigned with the 920th RQW. "We will do whatever it takes to get the job done."

During the all call Hostage thanked the 920th RQW and its members for having service before self and for the dedication Airmen provide the units unique mission.

"The fact that you are serving is what is important because you are reserving something truly unique in history, and that's the flaming flame of liberty," Hostage said. "Thank you for your heroic service."