Eighth Air Force Command Chief visits WAFB

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Alexandra M. Boutte
  • 509 Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The top enlisted Airman from the 8th Air Force visited here Oct. 3 to 5 to observe how Whiteman Airmen perform their mission first hand.

While here, Chief Master Sgt. Terry West, 8th AF command chief, visited with wing leadership, First Term Airman Center and Airman Leadership School students. The chief ate breakfast with Airmen, took a tour on the flightline and meet with enlisted and officer medical professionals at the clinic.

"I was impressed with the Airmen here," said Chief West. "The most exciting thing about my job is being able to talk to them and experience the great things they are doing."

After speaking to Whiteman Airmen, West said he trusts the quality of work Airmen provide here and recognized the great job they do while focusing on the unique mission of supporting the B-2 Spirit.

Furthermore, the chief said it is important to focus on the top priorities of the Air Force.

"When Whiteman comes in mind, our number one priority is to strengthen the nuclear capability of our Air Force," West said. "My biggest focus is the three pillars: training, education and experience.

"Concentrating on the three pillars with our enlisted force - our goal is to make sure our Airmen are developed and the right person is in the right job with the right skills," he added.

The chief challenged Airmen to look for opportunities to do something outside the box.

"Airman can prepare for leadership roles in tomorrow's Air Force by starting on education early and being technically proficient in their careers," the chief said.

Chief said Whiteman has talented non-commissioned officers who are very focused and engaged with their Airmen and making the mission happen.

"As we continue keeping the B-2 healthy and engaging in our nuclear capability and deterrence, we have to continue to do things right," West said. "The American public trusts us to get it done correctly."

After his visit with Team Whiteman, West said he believes American's trust is in good hands.