General offers top perspective to Airmen here

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Shawn J. Jones
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Air Combat Command's commander offered his perspective on current Air Force topics to 4th Fighter Wing Airmen here Jan. 23.

"First of all, I want to thank you for your service," Gen. John Corley said. "And I'm genuine about it because I'm serving with you as an Airman."

As the son, husband and father of Airmen, General Corley has a deep-rooted perspective on Air Force issues.

"We Airmen look at the world a bit different, and I'm glad we do," he said.

The general notified the Airmen of upcoming changes to the Air Force physical training program. The changes will emphasize year-round fitness as opposed to once-a-year fitness. He said improved physical fitness will enhance readiness and combat capability while reducing demands on medical personnel and the overall medical system.

General Corley also discussed the immediate future of fighter aircraft. He said he didn't expect the Air Force to purchase new F-15E Strike Eagles despite their value in performing non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions in the war on terror. The general said upcoming acquisitions would focus on the F-22 Raptor, the only fighter jet currently under production for the Air Force.

Additionally, General Corley explained how ACC will work closely with the new Global Strike Command in deterring aggressors from threatening American interests.

He said the cooperation between the two commands would deliver a clear warning.

"Don't mess with us. We are Airmen," he said. "If you choose unwisely, we will thrash you."