Air Component Command commander praises Wolf Pack

by Staff Sgt. Jessica Haas
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

9/25/2013 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  -- Lt. Gen. Jan-Marc Jouas, Republic of Korea and United States Combined Forces Command, Air Component Command commander, paid Kunsan Air Base a visit Sept. 22 - 24, to discuss important topics with members of the Wolf Pack.

During his visit, Jouas toured the base and spoke with young Airmen about their concerns, including possible changes to the Wolf Pack's mission.

"The mission here will probably stay the same," said Jouas. "Fortunately, sequestration has not hit us too badly here and we are going to continue to do what is asked of us - to defend the RoK and if attacked, we will respond appropriately."

Jouas said taking care of Airmen is one of his top priorities, something he said goes hand in hand with carrying out the mission.

"The Airmen are what make the mission happen, which is why it's of the utmost importance for us to listen and ensure we are taking care of them," said Jouas.

The general also showed his appreciation for the families of Kunsan Airmen supporting them from home.

"I think we all know it isn't just the Airmen who serve; it's the families that serve as well, and the Wolf Pack illustrates that," said Jouas. "Everybody here is unaccompanied, so except for Airmen in Afghanistan or other combat zones, this is the only place in the Air Force where everyone is unaccompanied. Because of that, I thank all the families, from the bottom of my heart, for the sacrifices they are making while their loved ones are away."

Even with familial separation, the mission here must go on - a mission that is very important to the 7 AF commander.

"Defend the base, accept follow on forces and take the fight north - everyone knows that is the mission of the Wolf Pack, making it a very unique place in many ways," said the general. "It's part of a much larger air power team that is comprised of U.S., RoK, and allied members. The mission here is to deter, defend and defeat - the Wolf Pack is a big part of that."