ACC Commander visits Moody, speaks with Airmen

by Senior Airman Frances Locquiao
23rd Wing Public Affairs

2/1/2010 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The commander of Air Combat Command, Gen. William M. Fraser III, recently visited Moody to gain insight into the mission, speak with Airmen from organizations around the base and express his gratitude for their continued service.

"I want to sincerely thank each and every Airman for their service to this country," said the general. "I would also like to thank family members for the sacrifices they are making so that the mission can be accomplished."

During his two-day visit, General Fraser explored the different units that encompass Moody's capabilities including close air support, combat search and rescue, and expeditionary force protection.

"Moody's capabilities are very critical to our success in overseas contingency operations," he said. "Our Combatant Command leaders and joint partners value Moody's unique and pivotal capabilities. You play a critical part in what we do."

During his visit, General Fraser was able to see the varying construction projects occurring throughout the base.

"I'm very impressed with the progress on base," he said. "There are new facilities and construction projects being built that help reinforce Moody's commitment to provide the best for our Airmen and their families."

While the majority of his visit was conducted on base, General Fraser had an opportunity to travel off-base to meet with Valdosta community leaders during a dinner.

"Moody is very fortunate to have a very supportive local community," said the general. "Their support really helps us and shows how much they are committed to this base and the people who work on it."

The final event of General Fraser's visit included a commander's call where Moody personnel had an opportunity to hear the general speak as well as participate in a question and answer session.

"I thought it was a great idea when General Fraser afforded civilians and Airmen of all ranks a chance to have their voice heard or concerns addressed," said Tech. Sgt. Bradford Bowen, 23rd Wing equal opportunity NCO in-charge. "It's great to see leadership from headquarters take time out of their busy schedule to come see us. I personally wanted to shake his hand and thank him for his visit."

"I will do everything I can to visit every base under ACC, so I can talk to Airmen and get their perspective," said General Fraser. "I enjoy talking and listening to them because it helps me become aware of challenges and issues that they are concerned with. I might not be able to fix all of them, but I have the ability to influence decisions. My job is to work for the Airmen."

Prior to his departure, General Fraser provided a few words of encouragement regarding the upcoming Phase I Operational Readiness Inspection re-look scheduled for March.

"I'm confident in the 23rd Wing's abilities to accomplish the mission," he said. "With focus and training, they are prepared to pass the inspection."

One of the three associated pictures:



MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Moody Airmen show Gen. William M. Fraser III, Air Combat Command commander, an A-10C Thunderbolt II during his base visit here January 27, 2010. General Fraser was provided details on the aircraft's capabilities as well as a mission brief. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Green) Hi-res

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