ACC commander visits Ellsworth

by Airman 1st Class Hrair H. Palyan
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

10/17/2012 - ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Ellsworth hosted Gen. Mike Hostage, commander of Air Combat Command, Oct. 9 and 10, and took the opportunity to showcase 28th Bomb Wing Airmen accomplishing the mission at the home to two of the nation's three B-1 combat squadrons.

During his visit, Hostage took time to speak with Airmen during a breakfast in the Freedom Chapel and toured several facilities including the new 432nd Attack Squadron, 28th Security Forces Squadron shoot house, and the recently renovated 28th Medical Group.

Master Sgt. Amy Miller, 28th Medical Operations Squadron NCO in charge of the Family Health Clinic, said some of the new modern additions in the 28th MDG include mobile tablets that allow providers to document a patient's care during an exam, and a mobile storage device for the supply room that reduces the amount of space used by 30 percent.

"For the most part, we've expedited and simplified some of the processes that are necessary for helping Airmen and their families," Miller said. "It was nice to able to show off and highlight some of the things we are so proud of here."

The general was quick to thank all of the Airmen for their service and made it clear how their efforts make today's Air Force the world's greatest.

"Everyone at Ellsworth plays a valuable role," said Hostage. "B-1 aircrews wouldn't be able to project airpower if it wasn't for all the dedicated Airmen who work tirelessly to make a successful mission possible."

Hostage encouraged Ellsworth Airmen to remain vigilant during the coming years as the Air Force undergoes many changes including force reshaping and reduced involvement in Southwest and Central Asia. He noted that all Airmen will need to adapt to innovate, a skill that has enabled past generations of Airmen to respond effectively to the unpredictable defense challenges the United States continues to face.

"For example, the B-1 was originally built to be a Cold War bomber designed to penetrate the Soviet Union," Hostage said. "Because of our ability to adapt to the needs of our nation and the changing world, today the B-1 is one of the most effective close-air-support aircraft employed - supporting ground forces around the world."

The general emphasized to all of the Airmen he met that their efforts are greatly appreciated and recognized by not only Ellsworth leaders, but by top Air Force leaders around the globe as well.