MIDDLETOWN, Pa. -- Senior leaders of the Air National Guard arrived in Middletown, Pennsylvania, March 10 to visit the men and women of the 193rd Special Operations Wing.
Air National Guard Director Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice and ANG Command Chief Master Sgt. Ronald C. Anderson came to get a first-hand look at how the 193rd Airmen successfully achieve their mission, and listen to their questions and concerns.
Upon arrival to the 193rd SOW, Rice and Anderson received a command brief hosted by wing leaders. Afterward, they enjoyed lunch at the base’s dining facility with some of the wing’s traditional Guardsmen.
In the afternoon, Rice and Anderson toured multiple units at the base, gaining a deeper understanding of the missions and capabilities of the 193rd SOW. Airmen also discussed the work they do outside of drill and how they balance their military duties with the responsibilities of a civilian career.
“It’s great to have Lt. Gen. Rice and Chief Anderson come out to our units and see what we do,” said Senior Airman Grayson Whistler, 193rd Special Operations Squadron electronic communications troop. “Everybody here at the 193rd Special Operations Wing works hard day-in and day-out to achieve the mission. It is fantastic to have our efforts seen and highlighted.”
Rice and Anderson concluded their tour with an “all call,” where they expressed gratitude for the work the Airmen at the 193rd SOW do, then fielded questions from members of the wing about the future of the ANG.
“It’s great to see so many of you here.” said Anderson. “Your pride and professionalism and what you bring to the fight help [Air Force Special Operations Command] do more than they have ever done.”
“We're here to say thank you,” Rice added. “You're one of the best units out there because of how you take care of each other and how you work together.”
After praising the men and women of the wing, Rice charged wing members to continue to work on balancing their careers, while taking care of their families and themselves.