PACAF leadership visits base, talks with Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Karen J. Tomasik
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Airmen across Yokota Air Base had the opportunity to meet Pacific Air Forces leadership during an all-call Wednesday at the base theater.

General Paul V. Hester serves as the PACAF commander and U.S. Pacific Command Air Component Commander. He was joined by Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Bishop, the new PACAF command chief during the visit.

The general covered a wide range of topics with base Airmen, ranging from force-shaping and Airmen' s role in the Global War on Terrorism to reemphasizing the Fifth Air Force/Unites States Forces-Japan commander' s "Commitment to Unwavering Professionalism."

"I embrace Lt. Gen. Bruce Wright's message," said General Hester. "At all times our professionalism serves as the hallmark of our work here in Japan. My centerpiece to personal professionalism begins with loyalty - loyalty to yourself, based on who you are; loyalty sideways, to your teammates and peers; and loyalty to those above and below you in the chain of command, both to those who lead and those whom you supervise."

The general also discussed the importance of character to decision making and leading Airmen in today's Air Force.

"There are certain milestones in life, and any parent can tell you, by age five or six, a child's personality is set, by age 15 or 16, IQ is somewhat set, but it takes the rest of our lives to develop character because character is molded by life experiences, observing others making decisions and the decisions a person makes," said General Hester. "Actions, or events happen all the time, but it is the reaction - shaped by experiences - that defines character."

The general also encouraged Airmen to be actively engaged in seeking answers to tough questions so they can make the right decisions when leading other Airmen.

During the rest of his visit, General Hester took time out of his schedule to meet with Airmen from various units while touring the refurbishment hangar and isochronal inspection section, the fire station, 5th AF headquarters, and Yokota's new Professional Military Education Center.

The general emphasized Yokota's role in the peace and stability of the region because of efforts in humanitarian relief operations and day-to-day interaction with our Japanese hosts.

"During missions like the tsunami relief in 2004, you opened the eyes and ears of the world to the heart and soul of America," said General Hester. "You are ambassadors - yourself as an American and as an Airman."