PACAF Command Chief addresses Icemen

  • Published
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  In his first visit here March 20-21, Chief Master Sgt. Steve McDonald, Pacific Air Forces command chief master sergeant, met with Airmen and listened to concerns about future impacts on the Air Force.

McDonald said he came to Eielson to find out how senior leadership can better support Eielson AFB and its Airmen, and to thank them for their service.

"We've talked across the senior leadership of this Air Force, both officer and enlisted, about how it is important for me to come out here, but only if you tell me what's going on," he said.

McDonald visited several locations, including the 353rd Combat Training Squadron, the Ice Box and the 354th Medical Group.

During an all-call at the base theater, McDonald answered questions posed by members of the Iceman Team. Airmen asked the Command Chief if there should be anything else to cause worry.

"We are taking cuts," McDonald explained. "We know what has happened with the budget issues, but what I will tell you is - we'll be all right."

Despite what the future holds, McDonald reiterated that the Air Force as a whole will overcome challenges to accomplish the mission.

McDonald left the Iceman Team thanking Airmen for their service. Without Airmen, our Air Force would not be the best in the world, he said.

"You do not hear how important you are enough - you are amazing Airmen," McDonald said. "Nobody can touch us and it's because of you. You put those planes in the air, you support the mission. The whole concept of fly, fight and win is because of you. It's not easy and it's a lot of sacrifice - so thank you to each and every one of you."