PACAF command chief visits Kadena, meets with Airmen

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Lottie Rasmussen
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Chief Master Sgt. Brooke McLean, Pacific Air Forces command chief master sergeant, visited Kadena from Oct. 6-9.

During his visit to the base, Chief McLean attended the 11th Annual Kadena Special Olympics, visited several units around the base and shared key messages with Airmen.

"The main reason I come out, is to hear the issues and concerns that are on the minds of our Airmen," Chief McLean said.

One of the concerns facing Airmen today is the physical fitness test. The chief pointed out that for a more efficient PT test, PACAF plans to implement "Airmen-testing-Airmen," shortening overall test time. Personnel from the Health and Wellness Center will still assess certain components of the test. This process will also place the Airmen back in the accountability loop for the integrity of the PT test.

Chief McLean emphasized that the main goal is to help individuals pass their test. "We are not trying to use the PT program to kick people out of the Air Force. We're trying to make sure people are making the lifestyle adjustments so they're fit, healthy, and combat ready," he added.

Another topic Chief McLean spoke about was the recent changes to high-year tenure and what's being done for Airmen in different circumstances.

"We've asked commanders at all levels to meet with individuals who are impacted by it [high-year tenure changes] and identify those who are impacted negatively," Chief McLean said. "It's different being overseas. We know there are circumstances where people need special consideration, and if it's possible, we want to help them."

The command chief also spoke about quality of life issues, mentioning that making the Air Force better for all Airmen is a top priority.

"We're working to get the resources so we can make the improvements to housing, dormitories and work places," he said.

The command's top enlisted Airman also discussed resources available to families when Airmen deploy downrange. The chief said the Airman and Family Readiness Center is a key focal point for families of deployed Airmen, but other resources are available as well.

"Whether it's the commander, first sergeant, or a key spouse who reaches out to individuals, we encourage all of those things, so that when somebody goes to a deployed location, they're worried about the deployed location and not what their family is doing back home," he said.

The chief concluded his visit by saying each Airman can have an impact in today's PACAF.

"Airmen serving in the Pacific right now are in a unique time to really shape what happens in the future, for the world," said the command chief. "Things that we do, the partnerships we develop for our friends and our allies, will potentially be the things that make sure we'll have peace in the future."