9th AF commander visits SJ

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Mariah Tolbert
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The 9th Air Force commander made a stop at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base for a first-hand look at why the 4th Fighter Wing's motto is "Fourth but First."

This was Maj. Gen. Lawrence Wells' first visit here. Wells said he was excited to visit the base because of its legacy, history and the hard work and dedication of its Airmen.

"What's impressed me the most is the commitment to not only the mission, but also to the local community," Wells said. "There is a feeling here that is just different than other bases. From the very first Airman who greets you at the gate to every place we have stopped, there are wonderful people who are highly trained and very excited about what they're doing."

Wells noted that the wing was one of the first units to lead Operations Desert Storm and Shield as well as Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom, contributing to its honorable history. He explained that many combatant commanders specifically request the 4th FW F-15E Strike Eagles and Airmen because of their power, precision, technology and dedication.

"It's not only the aircraft, it's the maintainers on the ground and the people in support roles," Wells said. "They are bringing the Air Force mission to the Southwest Asia region, integrating with the local populace and working together as part of a joint team."

Wells described the impact of Seymour Johnson as immeasurable and wants Airmen to understand they are appreciated Air Force-wide.

As 9th AF commander, Wells said he has two goals. The most important task, said Wells, is taking care of the people through training and helping them understand where they need to put their efforts. He also said he believes it is critical to help Airmen realize what a future in the Air Force offers by providing them and their families with the professional skills they need to balance their lives. His second goal is mission related; providing Airmen the proper tools, tactics and techniques to conduct the mission they have been called upon to complete.

"Communication is key to balancing the two goals," Wells said. "Talking with the people so they understand what the desired outcome is, by reaching out and explaining to them why that goal is important and what we are doing to help them. I'm convinced that people who understand what they are trying to do and why they are trying to do it, will always accomplish the mission."

Despite cutbacks in funding and manpower, Wells believes Team Seymour will continue to be an immeasurable force as equipment, tools and munitions become more sophisticated. As training becomes more in-depth and focused on new missions, Wells is confident the 4th FW will continue to exceed standards.

"I'm getting to see a bit of history in the making," Wells said. "I get to see a little bit of the legacy force that is here, but more importantly I'm very excited and proud to see the Airmen who will be future leaders of the Air Force."