LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. — U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. David Berkland, 56th Fighter Wing commander, is reinforcing the wing’s longstanding mission and vision with an emphasis on what he calls “Thunderbolt Nation’s ABCs.”
“Our mission hasn’t changed, we still train the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready Airmen,” Berkland said. “And our vision is still to be the world’s premier fighter wing, advancing airpower to win tomorrow’s fight. What’s changing is how we focus on executing it. The ABCs give our Airmen a foundation for how to move out and achieve Commander's Intent.”
The ABC framework, Airmen, Basics, and Culture, outlines the who, what, and how of the wing’s operations. Berkland said the shift is about sharpening focus and ensuring every Thunderbolt understands their role in delivering airpower at the highest standard of excellence.
The first part, Airmen, represents the foundation of the wing’s combat capability. Berkland emphasized having a selfless, team-first approach rooted in accountability is key to maintaining lethality and readiness.
“‘Airmen’ is the core of who we are,” said U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Nathan Chrestensen, 56th FW command chief. “When we put the mission and each other first, hold ourselves to the highest standards, and live by our Core Values every day, we are ready for combat and remain the most lethal force in the world.”
Next is Basics, which represents the daily disciplines and tactical mastery required to meet operational demands.
“‘Basics’ is the core of what we do,” Berkland said. “You can't accomplish big things if you're not getting all the little things right. When we master the fundamentals, then we can take calculated risks and match capabilities to threats, in the same way our fighter pilots and Airmen to perform under fire. Brilliance at the basics is how you win in combat.”
The final pillar, Culture, defines how the wing operates as a cohesive, championship-level team. Berkland noted that strong internal trust and external partnerships with allies and the local community are essential.
“‘Culture’ is how we operate every day,” Berkland said. “It’s about extreme ownership and tackling problems head-on. We are a team where everyone looks out for one another, and we strengthen deterrence by working with allies and partners to be ready for tomorrow’s fight.”
The ABCs will guide the wing in adapting to future challenges while preserving the excellence Luke AFB is known for worldwide.