NATO air commander visits US, Greek training operations

by Staff Sgt. Thomas Trower
48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/4/2014 - SOUDA AIR BASE, Greece  -- The commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, Air Forces Africa and Allied Air Command visited Souda Air Base, Greece, to witness multinational training between the U.S. and Hellenic air forces Feb. 28.

Gen. Frank Gorenc's visit marked the end of flight operations for the flying training deployment.

The 494th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron brought F-15E Strike Eagles from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Feb. 13. The training presented an opportunity for NATO's air component commander to speak with U.S. Airmen and the HAF's F-16 Block 52 fighter pilots.

"I've been watching what's happening here very closely," Gorenc said. "We're really turning some sorties [flying training missions] and getting the job done. Successful partnering activities like this lead to tangible benefits during peacetime contingencies and crises."

The partnering is meant to allow both nations to enhance interoperability and readiness. Greece offers unrestricted, live ranges, as well as access to infrastructure and support facilities.

"Any opportunity our forces have to fly in new airspace with one of our NATO partners is unique in and of itself," Gorenc said. "As you know, no nation can confront today's challenges alone."

"These training opportunities help expand relationships with key NATO allies while sustaining our readiness to be fully prepared to meet tomorrow's threats together," he added. "USAFE-AFAFRICA is 'forward, ready, now,' to provide capabilities and execute missions."

During his visit, Gorenc answered questions on topics ranging from fiscal constraints to ongoing reduction-in-force programs. "Readiness remains and will always be, the primary focus," he said. "So, we must invest more strategically to protect military capability and readiness. This FTD is a great example of how we can come together to enhance this."

"We're going at this together," Gorenc added. "I think with the training we've done here, we're better able to provide precise combat power from the air. This saves lives."
Gorenc also challenged all Airmen at Souda AB to improve.

"I ask every one of you to find ways to do things faster, better and cheaper," he said., "Don't make rash decisions or compromise safety; but if there is a way to improve programs, processes or tactics, we need to look at it and see what we can implement.

"Be the best Airman you can be every single day," he added. "At the end of the night I want you to go home knowing you gave it your all."