Gen. Carlisle speaks to Misawa’s significance

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jose L. Hernandez-Domitilo
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  The Pacific Air Forces' top general visited Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 14-15.

During his stay, Gen. Hawk Carlisle certified new PACAF F-16 Demo Team members, was updated on quality of life projects at Misawa, and held an Airmen Call with Wild Weasel Airmen.

Carlisle spoke to the Airmen reassuring them of their strategic and critical role in PACAF's mission of defending its allies while maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

"Whether there's instability on the Korean peninsula, unrest in the area, or a need for humanitarian or disaster response, the 35th Fighter Wing is going to be at the forefront in the first hour of the first day," said Carlisle.

From forward deploying fighter jets downrange to bedding down forces operating locally, and the ensuring humanitarian assistance in times of crisis, he highlighted the critical missions accomplished by Misawa and the invaluable commitment of its Airmen.

Its importance is evident in the 14th Fighter Squadron's lead role in the upcoming Red Flag- Alaska exercise.

"Having coalition and partner allies out there operating with us builds capabilities that make the whole so much greater than the sum of the parts," says Carlisle. "These types of large force exercises and the training we get for our aircrew on our different capabilities is incredible."

Misawa also recently became the operating location for the RQ-4 Global Hawk during summer months. Part of PACOM's Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance fleet, the Global Hawk provides enhanced capabilities such as long loiter times and the ability travel longer distance.

"We've already seen an increased capability by moving it up to Misawa," says Carlisle. "Its capabilities provide a tremendous advantage in its effectiveness and ability to do the mission."

However, despite all the great things Misawa has been doing, he recognized the wing's challenges with all the changes the Air Force is going through, both culturally and financially. From issues of force management, budget cuts, to breeding a culture of resilient Airmen, he knows the impact it has had on Airmen.

Despite the challenges we face, he stressed the most important part is making sure we take care of one another. For junior enlisted and officers, he asked them to expand their horizons, take advantage of all the things the Air Force has to offer, and get to know people and build friendships.

"Put your hand out to your fellow Airmen and look out for one another, believe in the wingman concept, and be there for each other," says Carlisle.

He thanked the Wild Weasel Airmen of Misawa for all the work they do day in and day out.

"You're amazing," he said of Misawa Airmen. "We ask our Airmen and their families to make sacrifices every day, and step up to serve their nation."