AFNORTH commander chooses new command chief

by Mary McHale
AFNORTH Public Affairs

4/11/2013 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and 1st Air Force (Air Forces Northern) commander has chosen the command chief master sergeant from the 113th Wing, District of Columbia Air National Guard to be the next CONR-1 AF (AFNORTH) command chief.

Lt. Gen. William Etter chose Chief Master Sgt. Ronald Anderson Jr. who entered the Air Force in 1987. The chief has a background in vehicle and aircraft maintenance, recruiting and several assignments throughout the National Guard Bureau.

"The opportunity to serve the men and women of CONR-1st Air Force is incredibly humbling," Anderson said. "I am honored and looking forward to not only the opportunity to work at the numbered Air Force level, but more importantly to remain engaged in the defense of the homeland. Like my fellow 113th Wing Capital Guardians who have scrambled over 4000 times since 9-11, I understand the incredible responsibility of our no-fail mission. I will bring that steadfast mission focus to my new position."

As the command chief, Anderson's responsibilities will include advising the CONR-1 AF (AFNORTH) commander on matters regarding the health, morale and welfare of assigned enlisted personnel and their families. First Air Force is one of three numbered air forces assigned to Air Combat Command and has the responsibility of ensuring the air sovereignty and air defense of the continental United States (CONUS). As the CONUS geographical component of NORAD, it provides airspace surveillance and control and directs all air sovereignty activities for the continental United States.

"Given the outstanding caliber of applicants, this selection proved to be a challenging decision," said Etter. "But in the end, Chief Anderson is the right person and I very much look forward to working with this exemplary chief."