AETC leader meets with Thunderbolts

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Melanie Iannaggi and Justin Oakes
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Chief Master Sergeant Robert Tappana, the Air Education and Training Command command chief, visited Luke Air Force Base July 28 through Aug. 1. 

During his stay at Luke, Chief Tappana met with several groups around the base in order to get a first-hand view of Luke's mission and to field questions and concerns. 

"When I visit a base, I always enjoy meeting with the Airmen," said Chief Tappana. "It allows me to see the how the mission happens and to thank them for all their hard work. It also gives me the opportunity to find out what's on their mind and help remove any obstacles in the way of their success." 

The primary topics of discussion focused on the new fitness program, uniform changes and the enlisted performance report system. 

"Supervisors need to give honest and accurate feedback and must hold Airmen accountable for their actions" says Chief Tappana. 

The command chief also emphasized that the health of individual Airmen directly contributes to the overall success of the mission. 

"It is crucial that everyone takes care of themselves and makes good choices," he said. "We need to stay balanced. When things get difficult in one area of our lives, and we ignore it, we get in trouble." 

Chief Tappana also added, "Not only is it important to go to the gym and stay in good physical shape, but it's critical to stay in good shape emotionally, mentally and spiritually. It is also important to make sure family life is functioning well and to maintain financial stability. 

"Luke has a huge mission and despite operating in a demanding climate, Airmen here demonstrate a positive attitude while contributing to the overall success of the base," Chief Tappana said.