56th FW commander says: Rise to UCI challenge

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer
  • 56th Fighter Wing commander
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Thunderbolts:
During commander's call late last year I discussed two of the biggest challenges facing the wing in 2009 - the air show and the unit compliance inspection. 

We tackled the air show in March - and thanks to your efforts it was a tremendous success. 

Now our second challenge is upon us - the Air Education and Training Command inspector general visit. We'll welcome the IG team the first week of May - and then it's show time. 

We've been preparing for this inspection for months, and whether you're military, civilian or contractor, I can't thank you enough for your personal efforts. Prepping for a major command inspection while maintaining normal daily operations - in the biggest fighter wing in the world - requires extraordinary effort. 

The UCI is our opportunity to rise to the challenge and add to the proud legacy of the 56th Fighter Wing - one of the most storied outfits in Air Force history. 

We'll show pride - in our Airmen, our squadrons, our wing and our Air Force. We'll be professional, positive and confidently showcase our strengths. We'll be mindful that attitude is everything. If an inspector asks about something we're unfamiliar with, we'll admit we don't know and go find the answer. If a discrepancy is found, we'll fix it on the spot if possible. If we don't agree with an inspector, we won't argue - we'll provide the IG with constructive feedback on policies that may be obsolete or in need of change. 

The AETC IG will make us better. The UCI is not just about compliance with directives and policies - it's an excellent crosscheck to ensure we're accomplishing our mission. 

Whether it's wearing the uniform correctly, following tech data or dropping steel on target, it's all about making the mission happen. 

So as this challenge approaches, remember this: stay focused on your mission, make the wing better, sharpen your skills, and trust in your brothers and sisters. 

We're gonna do great. 

Cave Tonitrum!
Luke 1