JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Joint Base Charleston was honored with a visit from Air Mobility Command's top leaders, AMC Commander Gen. Raymond Johns and the AMC Command Chief, Chief Master Sgt. David Spector, during their recent mission to Haiti.
Their stay in Charleston was brief but busy, with Chief Spector arriving Feb. 16, General Johns Feb. 17 and both departing by Feb. 18.
During their stay, the AMC leaders met face to face with both 628th Air Base Wing and 437th Airlift Wing leaders, as well as junior Airmen.
"My visit to Charleston was awesome. Both wing commanders and their command chiefs extended the highest level of hospitality to me and General Johns," said Chief Spector. "My Wednesday started with breakfast in the dining facility with about 30 Airmen from both wings. I was very impressed with their level of professionalism and strategic-level questions."
Their itinerary maximized the short time available and also included office calls with 628th ABW and 437th AW commanders and command chiefs.
"We talked about joint basing, building partnership relations and ensuring all Airmen knew how their contributions and service supported AMC, U.S. Transportation Command and the other Combatant Commands," the chief said. "Finally, I thanked them for their contributions in support of operations in Haiti."
Included in the base visit was a stop to the First Term Airmen Center here as well.
"I talked with our newest Airmen about expectations, core values, living a culture of responsible choices and building relationships so we can all be supportive wingmen," said Chief Spector.
In talking with the Airmen, he said he specifically focused on the importance of continuing to build on the basics taught during Air Force Basic Military Training.
Before departing for Haiti, the AMC leaders also had the opportunity to see how Joint Team Charleston is supporting operations in Afghanistan with a visit to the mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehicle processing line here, where Airmen explained their mission in detail.
"They were easily able to articulate the importance of their role in the critical movement of these vehicles to Afghanistan," said Chief Spector. "They had their process wired and things were flowing like a well-oiled machine.
"The base's stats are impressive and speak volumes about AMC ... as well as our nation's contribution in relief efforts," he added. "Overall, the base looked great, Airmen get it, and they are ready to perform any mission asked of them."
Chief Spector said the flight to Haiti was noteworthy, and the crew he flew with as well as the Charleston Airmen he met on the ground in Haiti were fully tuned in to their impacting and vital roles in providing relief in the wake of devastating destruction in the country.