OG commander sets stage for accomplishing mission

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Hatch
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Col. Robert Givens took command of the 56th Operations Group June 1 in a ceremony in Hangar 913. In a recent interview he expressed his thoughts on taking command, his vision for the operations group and how the mission will be accomplished at Luke. 

"I am thrilled to take command of the 56th OG," said Colonel Givens. "I can think of no greater way to contribute to today's fight than by training the warriors that will defend our nation's skies for the next decade." 

Focusing on the war, improving communication with commanders and providing the most up-to-date pilot training are among Colonel Givens' top goals. 

"As we continue to fight the war on terrorism, getting ready for deployments will be a major focus," he said. "Keeping a 'going-into-battle' mindset is essential and pilots need to train with that in mind.
 
"Luke today is what it may have been like during Vietnam," Colonel Givens said. "During that time pilots who were trained at Luke knew they were going into combat. Our pilots need to be thinking the same way." 

U.S. Air Force combat units from around the world have maintained continuous contact with the 56th OG to ensure Luke pilots arrive at their base ready to go to battle with their unit.

Part of preparing battle-ready warfighters is providing the most up-to-date training available.

"Taking a look at student pilots, how well they fly, their aptitude for combat and their drive and initiative are vital for the Combat  Air Force," Colonel Givens said.

An additional challenge is Luke's aging F-16s.

"As our jets age we're going to see challenges that nobody's seen before," Colonel Givens said. "It will take a joint effort between the OG and 56th Maintenance Group to identify and work these challenges that are unique to Luke's jets. We will work hand-in-hand."

Colonel Givens commands 10 squadrons, and communicating his training priorities is his main focus. Monthly face-to-face discussions will include what instructor pilots see students do, mistakes they make, or odd situations that occur during training.

"Exchanging information in this manner will aide instructors in solving reccurring problems and help them become more efficient,"  Colonel Givens said. 

Colonel Givens plans to maintain the legacy Col. Timothy Strawther, former 56th OG commander, began by continuing the Viper Way Ahead program. The VWA analyzes future F-16 training so that pilots are trained to employ highly proficient skill sets for the Combat Air Forces. 

"It's important for students from all disciplines to train together  before going to a deployed F-16 unit in order to ensure the greatest efficiency and seamless operations in theater," said Colonel Givens. 

Colonel Givens added his final thought. 

"I would like to stress the importance for everyone at Luke, especially in the operations group, to understand that we're at war, 24-hours-a-day, every day of the year," he said.