USAFE-UK hosts spring reception, welcomes new director

by Airman 1st Class Preston Webb
100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

6/9/2014 - RAF MILDENHALL, England  -- U.S. Air Forces in Europe-United Kingdom's annual 2014 spring reception marked a change in responsibility for the organization May 30, 2014, at Middleton Hall on RAF Mildenhall, England.

Brig. Gen. Christopher J. Bence, 3rd Air Force vice commander, introduced Brig. Gen. Douglas A. Cox as USAFE-UK's newest director to a room full of civic and military leaders, officially passing over responsibility for maintaining the special relationship between the U.S. and the U.K.

As U.S. European Command's country representative, the USAFE-UK director is entrusted with establishing and maintaining enduring relationships with the British community. This is accomplished through a variety of engagements, including social receptions.

Events such as the reception take place a few times a year, and allow local military and community leaders to build social bonds, further strengthening the U.S. visiting forces relationship with British neighbors.

"The Spring Reception offers an opportunity for new mayors, high sheriffs and military personnel to gather together as we work together during the upcoming year," said Bence. "As guests in the U.K., building relationships and getting to know the local community is very important. The special relationship the U.S. enjoys with the U.K. is based on our open dialogue with our neighbors."

Gathering leaders together in such social settings offers a platform for discussion of any upcoming events or issues, while in a relaxed environment.

"The reception allows all the mayors, high sheriffs and leaders know what the mission is," said Ken Thompson, British-American Community Relations chairman, who had the opportunity to be a part of several similar events during his 25-year tenure with the BACR. "We're lucky to have [these leaders at] RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath, because they let the public know what's going to happen [ahead of time], instead of when it happens, so we can be prepared."

The spring reception also serves as an opportunity for new leaders to meet one another, and establish working relationships with U.S. Force leadership and each other.

This year's spring reception served just that purpose for Cox, who was introduced to the key leaders he will be working with for the first time.

"[The reception] is a great opportunity to meet our allies, express a sense of cooperation with them, and discuss any issues which may need to be addressed in the near future," Cox said. "I look forward to a continued relationship with these impressive community leaders, as we work together in the interest of defense for both of our countries. We have a great partnership -- a strong partnership. We're very lucky to have such staunch allies."