JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
U.S. Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson visited Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Dec. 12, 2018.
The purpose of the visit was to understand U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor readiness and how Wilson can assist in achieving those readiness initiatives throughout the entire force.
“We are here today to look at squadron readiness,” Wilson said. “As a high priority in the Air Force, we are trying to restore the readiness of the force to win any fight, anytime. And that’s particularly true here with the F-22s.”
Wilson toured 1st Fighter Wing facilities and met with pilots. She also met with members of the Langley Civic Leader’s Association.
During her discussion with pilots, Wilson learned more about their experiences and stressed each member’s key role in ensuring they are ready to support the mission at a moment’s notice.
“We have high expectations (of JBLE) and it has been a busy last year,” Wilson said. “We’re seeing some changes in mission capabilities and readiness, now we have to focus on what we do next with that readiness.”
Wilson also took time to recognize Senior Airman Carl Mitchell, 1st Maintenance Squadron low observable structural journeyman, by presenting him with her personal coin. Mitchell was recognized for ensuring F-22 Raptors at JBLE are combat capable.