Luke welcomes AETC/IG team

  • Published
  • By Justin Oakes
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  After months of anticipation Luke Air Force Base stands ready to welcome Air Education and Training Command's Inspector General for the unit compliance inspection. 

On May 3rd, the 157-person IG team will arrive from San Antonio to begin a week-long assessment of Luke that includes a major accident response exercise. 

However, Luke Thunderbolts are prepared for the opportunity to showcase their units to the visitors. 

"There is no doubt that gearing up for an inspection is a base-wide team effort," said Lt. Col. Kenneth Hubbard, 56th Fighter Wing Inspector General commander. "The purpose of an inspection is not to find fault, but to evaluate our processes to ensure operations function in the most efficient manner possible. Constant review of how we conduct business is critical for finding new and innovative ways to improve Luke as a whole." 

Many base offices are anxious to reveal just how prepared their units are - and the 310th Fighter Squadron Top Hats are no exception. 

"I am a firm believer that the 56th Fighter Wing and 310th FS remain ready at all times for any inspection," said Lt. Col. James McCune, 310th FS commander. "I am constantly amazed how well we do our mission every day. The teamwork required to make this massive operation run smoothly is impressive." 

The last inspection occurred in 2005, and it is not uncommon to hear the word outstanding when referring to Luke units. 

"During the last UCI, the 310th garnered an 'outstanding,'" Colonel McCune said. "I fully anticipate this year's results will reflect the same outstanding rating due to the exceptional work and dedication the men and women of the Top Hats put forth. I also believe the 56th Fighter Wing will perform just as well; we already know how well Thunderbolts perform -- is just our opportunity to show it." 

Units prepared for the upcoming inspection differently, but a common goal remains - "to bring home the trophy," Colonel McCune said. 

For example, one squadron, in order to gain valuable insight, sent representatives to observe the Vance AFB, Okla., UCI. 

"It is clear we execute major items well, so the key is attention to details," Colonel McCune said. 

Some squadrons took a more interactive approach in preparing. 

The 56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, comprised of the 61st, 62nd, 309th and 425th aircraft maintenance units, hosted a pep rally to review important updates. The rally included a Jeopardy-style question and answer session with Thunderbolts. 

Regardless of how Luke units prepared for the inspection, a belief held base-wide is - Thunderbolts are more than ready to showcase the base to the AETC guests.