RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany – Third Air Force Commander, Maj. Gen. Randall Reed, and Third Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Heriberto Diaz visited the 86th Airlift Wing for an immersion tour at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Nov. 2-3, 2021.
Reed and Diaz met with Airmen from different units across the 86 AW to receive insight about contributions units and Airmen make in support of the USAFE-AFAFRICA mission.
“Our Airmen and Guardians are fantastic,” Reed said. “No matter whether they are in Europe or Africa, they’re solving complicated problems and producing security.”
Multiple 86 AW units showcased the achievements of their Airmen, newly developed innovations and projects planned for the future.
“The world is looking to the United States to be great partners and in some cases to lead,” said Reed. “They’re looking at Third Air Force Airmen and Guardians to fulfill responsibilities, work together, train together, and when it boils down to it, we deter together.”
During the visit, Reed and Diaz attended briefings with the 86th Civil Engineer Group, the 86th Vehicle Readiness Squadron, the 86th Maintenance Group and other units that played significant roles in Operation Allies Refuge/Welcome. During these briefings, Airmen outlined the importance of readiness.
“Volunteers, spouses, entire families showed up doing everything they could to make room for thousands of people who made a very brave and courageous decision,”said Reed.
While traveling to each unit, Reed and Diaz recognized Airmen from the 86 AW as superior performers after learning about each Airman's accomplishments from their leadership.
Throughout the tour, Reed and Diaz prioritized meeting and talking with Airmen. While witnessing the installation showcase its critical mission capabilities was a large focus, 3 AF leadership wanted to ensure they could connect with Airmen and help them understand the value they bring to the theater.
“What I’m here to do is make sure that the men and women of the 86th Airlift Wing understand that the world values them,” said Reed. “What an amazing wing! What an amazing collection of folks with an impossible-sized mission! Ramstein is one of the most important spots that the Air Force has. We send our very best here for a reason because we ask and demand so much of them 24/7. Just about every combatant command depends on the folks here, what they produce and what they do. So, men and women of the 86 AW, thank you for being you, and I couldn’t be more proud of you.”