Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach, and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Wolfe, accompanied by their wives, Mrs. Cindy Wilsbach and Dr. Doniel Wolfe, visited Altus Air Force Base April 16, to gain insight and understanding to "Mobility's Hometown."
The might of the 97th Air Mobility Wing was on full display, highlighting how Altus directly supports the Chief of Staff's priorities. Guided by the wing's vision - "Victory Begins Here" - Altus AFB Airmen deliver the training and readiness that underpin global mobility operations.
"It all starts right here at Altus Air Force Base, where you train mobility air crews," said Wilsbach. "Nothing happens without the aircraft here and the maintainers who fix these aircraft. Not a single jet would get to the fight, and they certainly won't be successful without the logistics and air mobility assets behind them."
During the visit, the CSAF and CMSAF received a mission brief outlining Altus' unique contribution to the operational Air Force, including participation in large-scale global efforts such as Operation Midnight Hammer and Operation Epic Fury.
"The awesome things we do at this wing are a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our Airmen," said Col. Richard Kind, 97th Air Mobility Wing commander. "Their commitment ensures we can deliver unrivaled air mobility capabilities anytime, anywhere."
Highlighting the critical role Altus Airmen play in flying and maintaining some of the Air Force's most vital aircraft, the senior leaders spent time on the flightline engaging with Airmen across multiple career fields. They also immersed themselves in the capabilities of the C-17 Globemaster III and KC-135 Stratotanker, gaining a firsthand look at how Altus delivers combat-ready mobility forces.
During their visit, Wilsbach and Wolfe addressed the base during an all call that brought together roughly 1,020 Airmen, civilians, contractors and family members. The all call provided an opportunity for senior leaders to connect with Airmen at every level, answer questions, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing today's Air Force.
"The work we do here is important, because when the nation asks us to do extremely difficult things we must be ready to deliver," said Wilsbach. "We prepare by doing hard things together, and ensuring we are physically fit, mentally sharp, and spiritually ready."
Drawing on his extensive background in professional military education, Wolfe also met with Airman Leadership School and Foundations instructors, as well as Airman Dorm Leaders. The discussions emphasized the role Altus plays in developing the next generation of Airmen through high standards, innovation and technical excellence.
"Innovation is about trust," said Wolfe. "When your leadership sees you're consistently nailing the basics, you're on time, you're professional, you're an expert in your craft; that builds the confidence that opens the doors for you to be able to bring those great ideas to work."
Meanwhile, Mrs. Cindy Wilsbach and Dr. Doniel Wolfe met with key support liaisons, installation leaders and community partners to discuss quality-of-life priorities, including childcare, spouse employment, medical access and housing. They also toured the recently renovated Child Development Center to learn about best practices implemented during the project.
The spouses were additionally given an inside look at base facilities and support programs designed to enhance the quality of life for Altus AFB families.
Altus Air Force Base is comprised of Airmen (Active Duty, Reserve, Guard, and civilian) who are all connected to the mission, and every Airman contributes to the generation of airpower to support the Joint fight.
The visit concluded with the CSAF boarding and piloting a KC-46A Pegasus from Altus AFB to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. A command pilot with more than 6,200 flying hours across multiple aircraft, Wilsbach took the controls of the Air Force's newest tanker - demonstrating his commitment to remaining personally connected to the mission and the Airmen who execute it.
