Wing boss lauds Luke, bids farewell Published Sept. 17, 2010 By Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer 56th Fighter Wing commander LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Our base namesake, Lt. Frank Luke, provides us with an extraordinary example of courage, resolve and merit. And in the past two years, you've shown these same virtues in countless notable accomplishments. You've shown courage. More than 2,100 of you deployed fit, ready and able for combat operations downrange. In fact, many of you were decorated for your actions. You've been resolute. You've trained more than 800 fighter pilots and 1,100 crew chiefs - 90 percent of all F-16 pilots and 100 percent of all F-16 crew chiefs for the combat air force -- in an extremely challenging environment. Finally, you've soared to the highest heights in unit compliance, standardization and evaluation, health services, and Environmental, Safety and Occupational Health Compliance Assessment and Management Program inspections, along with earning more than 17 headquarters Air Force and 70 major command awards. Frank Luke, Hub Zemke, and Gabby Gabreski are among the giants who built us into the finest air arm in the world. And as they look down upon you, they see your spirit. They know you've built on their legacy. And they know you're the reason why the United States Air Force is the best in the world. It has been my highest honor and greatest privilege to serve you as your wing commander. Thank you for what you do for our Air Force and our country. Thank you for serving with courage, resolve and merit. Thank you for being American Airmen. Luke 1 Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer 56th Fighter Wing commander Cave Tonitrum!