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6 Apr 2007
Sentimental journey: An Airman's perspective on Heritage to Horizons
As a veteran attendee of more than 50 air shows, I can honestly say that our recent Luke Days was one of the best I've ever attended. Without a doubt, my favorite aircraft on display was the B-17G Flying Fortress. Sadly, only a handful of flyable B-17s remain from the 12,726 built by three manufacturers during World War II. "Sentimental Journey,"
30 Mar 2007
Spikes, enduring band of brothers
The 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit maintains the oldest F-16s in the Air Force inventory while safely generating sorties to produce the greatest fighter pilots in the world. It's an incredible feat and the maintenance professionals in the unit do it with pride and distinction each and every day. The past year characterized adversity for the 195
30 Mar 2007
Thunderbolts support GWOT
The 56th Fighter Wing routinely has approximately 300 Airmen deployed around the world in support of the global war on terror. Though this number represents only about 5 percent of our total active duty force at Luke, the various missions performed by our Airmen down range are critical to the overall objective of putting a stop to terrorism. So
23 Feb 2007
Character of America serves to protect
The 56th Fighter Wing continues to deploy Airmen as we do our part infighting the global war on terror. I was proud and genuinely moved a few weeks ago when the Medical Group deployed our latest team of warfighters. A medical administration team consisting of two officers and four enlisted personnel left Luke for a routine 120 day tour to an
2 Feb 2007
Work, family balance critical to mission success
The warriors assigned to Luke -- Airmen, civilians, active duty and Reservists -- have the distinct honor of defending our great nation. Our mission is vital and accomplishing it comes at no small price in blood, sweat and tears. We earn every bit of the compensation our country gives us, both in respect and money, but we must make sure we balance
28 Dec 2006
Being thankful for everyday life
Today, a Sunday morning, I went for a long run throughmy neighborhood in Litchfield Park, walked into my home and took a long hot shower with clean water. I just read the Sunday newspaper and an editorial page where differing views were offered -- all while enjoying a hot cup of homebrewed coffee and some toast made with fresh bread and jam. After
27 Nov 2006
Be prepared for the unexpected
What do you want to be remembered for? If you passed away unexpectedly, what would your obituary say? Would your family be taken care of financially with a plan for the future? If you are single, will the state you are residing in decide where your belongings go? Or are you prepared and taking care of your responsibilities?This is quite a lot to
27 Nov 2006
Every Airman a wingman
Between staff meetings, answering taskers for the boss and drafting 1206s, I had noticed one of my young officers was more reserved than usual. I inquired of this supervisor if there had been any change in the lieutenant's job performance.I learned that while no major problems had arisen, his supervisor remarked that he often seemed to be lost in
8 Nov 2006
56FW/CC, wife bid farewell to Thunderbolts
Fellow Thunderbolts - it's been my highest honor to serve with each of you in Fighter Country these past two years! Trust me when I say, it's very difficult for Kim and I to say good bye to such an extraordinary group of warriors, fellow Air Force active and civilian wingmen, and wonderful community friends. I'm so very proud of you and your
8 Nov 2006
Family lies between lines of core values
Upon taking command of the 56th Security Forces Squadron more than two years ago, I shocked myself by stating publicly that when it comes to core values, particularly the one about service before self, that the Air Force had it wrong. At my first commander's call, I told the squadron that it should be "family before service before self." Needless

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We’ve showed you tips for beating the heat, but make sure you look out for your furry friends, too! 🐶☀️ #summersafety #petsafety

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-16 Jul

Thunderbolts - have you heard there were updates to AFI 36-2903? Check out some of the major changes in this short video and then get smart on all of them by reviewing the full list here: https://go.usa.gov/xU9kX

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-16 Jul

Krav Maga instructors visited Luke Air Force Base last week to teach our Security Forces #defenders combative techniques that they can use in their daily operations to ensure the safety of themselves and our personnel. Upon completion of the seven-day Krav Maga training, the members became instructor certified to teach military and government employees.

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-15 Jul

Did you know the AFMS - Luke - 56th Medical Group operates a pharmacy in Scottsdale 2 days a week to better serve the beneficiaries in the east valley? Here’s what you need to know: 1️⃣ open Mon & Thur 0900-1500 2️⃣ located at 7301 E 4th St, Suite 7 Scottsdale AZ 3️⃣ call 623-856-3450 for assistance 4️⃣ to refill a prescription call 623-856-3969

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-13 Jul

Each week an Airman is recognized from the 56th Fighter Wing as the Thunderbolt of the Week for their outstanding performance and dedication to duty. Join us in congratulating the amazing Airmen of Thunderbolt nation!

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-12 Jul

Have you seen those scenes in movies where the computer geniuses track the bad guys trying to break into a network and stop them?! Well we just got our own version...kind of. 💻⛔️🔍 Luke's network security was recently upgraded with the Mission Defense Team reaching initial operating capability. The MDT monitors base network traffic and communicates any threats, anomalies, or suspicious activity. Learn more about how the Air Force is transforming Communication Squadrons to optimize #cyber security for weapons systems and networks.

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-11 Jul

“What this program is going to do is provide the stability for the AMU to produce a consistent turn-pattern of aircraft..to produce more pilots, more efficiently, with a higher quality of training.” As part of an effort to increase #F35 maintenance effectiveness and efficiency the 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit created a team of unified maintenance Air Force specialties called Lightning Integrated Technicians. Learn how these #Airmen have exceeded Air Education and Training Command mission capable rates with fewer technicians than traditional manpower constructs. https://go.usa.gov/xUBHb

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-10 Jul

The U.S. Air Force F-35 Heritage Flight Team is heading to the UK to take part in the #RAF100 festivities this weekend!

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-10 Jul

Thunderbolts - don't make dinner plans for Thursday night...come out to Club Five Six and take part in the PF Chang's food truck!

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-09 Jul

We recently had the honor of hosting Under Secretary of the Air Force Matthew Donovan. During his visit he gained insight into #F35 training operations and served as the guest speaker for the 61st Fighter Squadron F-35A basic course graduation. ⭐️ Fun Fact! Under Secretary Donovan graduated from the 426th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron at Luke in 1983 as an F-15 Eagle pilot and his initial instructor pilot was an exchange officer from the Royal Australian Air Force. The #61FS continues the legacy of #Mateship and strengthening alliances today. 🇺🇸 🇦🇺 Read more here: https://go.usa.gov/xUWUC

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-07 Jul

“As you progress in your career and you advance in rank, you find that your responsibilities change and your role in the organization changes. You take what you get and you learn from it. Every experience you have, you take something away.” For DeLand, Fla. native Capt Kristi Machado her journey from college graduate to Enlisted Airman to Force Support Officer is one of optimism and pragmatism that led her to becoming the leader she is today. Read more here: https://go.usa.gov/xUjtp #KnowYourMil

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-05 Jul

Chief Wright just announced an update to the Enlisted Force Structure. Take a few min to review and if you have any questions let us know and we’ll do our best to get them answered.

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-04 Jul

Hope everyone is celebrating big (and safe!) today! 🎇🇺🇸

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-03 Jul

We had a blast at LukeEvents Freedom Fest Friday night! If you couldn't make it or need more fireworks in your life here are a few place around the West Valley you can find them tomorrow night! 🎇Westgate Firework Fest | 5-9pm 🎇⚾️Surprise Fourth of July baseball game and fireworks | game starts at 5:30pm, fireworks 8:30pm 🎇Goodyear's Star-Spangled 4th | 6-10pm 🎇Buckeye's Old-Fashioned Independence Day Celebration | 7-9pm 🎇Red, White and Boom! at The Wigwam | 6-8:30pm 🎇Tolleson 4th of July Celebration | starts at 4pm 🎇Peoria's All-American Festival | fireworks at 9:15pm *some events are free and some require tickets so give them a quick google search to get all the details!* 📸: A1C Alex Cook

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-02 Jul

#DYK that servicemembers can register to vote by absentee ballot in whatever state they are a resident of? Watch this video from the Federal Voting Assistance Program - FVAP to learn more! You can also call the Luke A&FRC for help getting registered and requesting your ballot at 623-856-6550.

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-01 Jul

Every day we build fighter pilots. Airman Magazine recently spent time with the 54th Fighter Group to learn more about how we are helping the United States Air Force get after the complex issue of the pilot shortage.

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-29 Jun

Today we marked the end of our summer change of command season (13 this year!). Thanks again to all the outstanding leaders who departed for your contributions building the future of #airpower and welcome to all new commanders! Pics from all the ceremonies here at Luke (as well as many other events from around TBolt Nation) can be found on our Flickr page: https://www.flickr.com/photos/56fwpa/albums

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-28 Jun

Thunderbolts time for some #SummerSafety reminders! Even though we only hit 110 degrees 5 times so far in June (compared to 11 times from 2015-2017) it’s still hot enough to need to hydrate and wear your SPF every day. 🔥🔥🔥 What else do you do to stay cool?

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-27 Jun

Today Luke Air Force Base completed our 20,000th #F35 sortie! We continue to build the future of airpower with an amazing total force, partner nation and industry team! Congrats to all who played a part! 🇺🇸🇦🇺🇮🇹🇳🇴🇯🇵 944th Fighter Wing Air Force Reserve Luke AFB F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office F-35 Lightning II

U.S. Air Force
Luke56thFW-27 Jun

Last week Thunderbolts climbed dirt hills and dove into muddy waters as they took on the Jump in the Mud 5k. Learn how one Thunderbolt got out of her comfort zone and got more than a good workout from it. #mudrun #5K #thunderbolts LukeEvents

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-19 Sep

Chiefs from across @AETCommand gathered at Luke last week to learn how we are changing the Air Force with innovativ… https://t.co/oAxvhQteJT

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-18 Sep

RT @AF_Academy: The #CaptainMarvel trailer is finally here. Now, we're not saying we make superheroes but she's not wearing a @WestPoint_US…

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-18 Sep

We build the foundation of MultiDomain Ops by training Command and Control warriors in the 607 Air Control Squadron! https://t.co/6lVelWPxme

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-18 Sep

RT @AirmanMagazine: Currently the @usairforce has 312 operational squadrons. Looking forward, @SecAFOfficial says to implement the National…

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-17 Sep

The designation of #ace is one of the greatest in fighter pilot culture. It is reserved for those who have shot dow… https://t.co/AcngQirssA

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-17 Sep

Cheering for our #Airman’s to be named the winner at #ASC18 👏🏼👏🏼 https://t.co/mnxcuDcPpv

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-17 Sep

RT @usairforce: .@SecAFOfficial: The #USAF we need to implement the National Defense Strategy has 386 Operational Squadrons. #ASC18 https:/…

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-15 Sep

Congrats to 56 SFS defender SrA David Hightower on earning 2nd place out of 56 USAF and partner defenders for “Top… https://t.co/VqPAiPUJUo

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-14 Sep

Later that day, Luke’s sq received another tasking. Luke made the attack w/Wehner providing cover. After Luke hit t… https://t.co/7eWcccDV6R

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-14 Sep

The morning of Sept 14 1918, Luke and two others strayed from formation pursuing an Observation Balloon. Through a… https://t.co/SziIIXDOuM

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-14 Sep

The next chapter of Lt Frank Luke Jr’s #18in18 legacy includes his best friend Lt Joseph Frank "Fritz" Wehner. Beca… https://t.co/dcjjfFKz66

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-14 Sep

We're so proud of SrA Hightower! Only 6 individual awards given for all who participated and he grabbed one! https://t.co/gwbdiAUc1r

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-14 Sep

RT @DeptDefence: .@Aus_AirForce pilots & maintenance personnel have undergone munitions loading training for the F-35A joint strike fighter…

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-13 Sep

Our pilots have a lot to worry about when they step to their jet. The Aircrew Flight Equipment #Airmen make sure ea… https://t.co/53sEkgE9u1

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-13 Sep

We're thinking of everyone on the east coast impacted my Hurricane #Florence. Stay safe! https://t.co/4MtJkOM7cL

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-12 Sep

Thunderbolts - plan accordingly for traffic diversions next weekend! https://t.co/jYiDMG8npE

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-12 Sep

100 yrs ago today Lt Frank Luke Jr’s #18in18 legacy began. Luke broke formation to pursue the heavily defended Obse… https://t.co/DH7ZCcjYBW

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-12 Sep

RT @AETCommand: #ICYMI - the 2018 #AFDefenderChallenge is underway at @JBSA_Official-Camp Bullis this week. Check out the imagery from the…

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-11 Sep

#Thunderbolts gathered this morning to remember the lives of the 411 first responders lost on Sept 11, 2001. #DYK… https://t.co/hzKL1PbIXe

U.S. Air Force
@lukeafb-10 Sep

The squadron is the heart of the @usairforce. It’s where #Airmen develop their technical and leadership skills. It’… https://t.co/bcFAI7k9a8

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