WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Chief Master Sgt. Charles R. Hoffman, the command chief of Air Force Global Strike Command from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, visited Whiteman AFB, Missouri, June 10-12, 2019.
Hoffman was given a full immersion tour of Whiteman AFB from the units around base to learn more about their roles and responsibilities and how they will work under him in his new role. Hoffman became the AFGSC command chief in March of 2019.
Prior to visiting Whiteman AFB Hoffman said he looked forward to engaging with the Airmen and seeing them in action who are always ready to maintain the peace or deliver long range precision strike.
Hoffman began his tour by having breakfast with Airmen from units across base at the Ozark Inn Dining Facility.
Hoffman highlighted the importance of interacting with Airmen.
“We want them to know how much our country, Air Force and command values what they do every day,” said Hoffman. “It was a great opportunity to learn from each other. Eyeball to eyeball interaction is the best way to connect and understand each other. We should never underestimate the power of seeing things firsthand. It is a privilege to work for our Airmen and for all of us to work for the Air Force. Machines, tools and technology collect dust without our people.”
Hoffman also toured unaccompanied housing with 509th Mission Support Group and 509th Civil Engineering Squadron leadership. First, they toured Endeavor Hall, which was closed to prepare for renovations. Then, they went to Atlantis Hall, which serves as the new standard for dorm buildings on Whiteman AFB since it was renovated.
He also visited the 509th and 131st Maintenance Groups where he received an in-depth tour of a B-2 Stealth Bomber, munitions and the low-observable maintenance process.
Hoffman also visited the tenant units on base, including the 442nd Fighter Wing where he had the opportunity to meet with Airmen and learn about the A-10 Thunderbolt II.
Hoffman said he was impressed by the Airmen he encountered.
“The professionalism, pride, passion and commitment that each Airman at Whiteman exuded was inspiring,” He said. “We have challenges, but I am heartened by the can do/could do attitude and innovative spirit that was evident from Airman to command.”
Hoffman also talked about his priorities as command chief.
“My priorities are to build on the strengths of our: excellence in the mission, the strength of our team of teams, and the development and the care of our people who are the envy of the world,” said Hoffman.
As command chief, Hoffman offered his perspective on Whiteman AFB’s role in both AFGSC and national defense.
“Team Whiteman provides a vital part of our nation’s triad,” said Hoffman. “You create decision space and capability options to the command authority, spanning the future continuum of the phases of conflict. Your readiness, excellence, teamwork and Airmen fulfill our nation’s strength and freedom every day, never forget that.”