Welcome RED FLAG-Alaska 10-2 participants

  • Published
  • By Col. James N. Post III
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Red Flag Participants,

On behalf of "Team Eielson", welcome to "The Great Land" and RED FLAG-Alaska 10-2.
The 354th Fighter Wing has been busily preparing for your arrival and offers Eielson AFB as your home for the next couple of weeks.

Before we focus our attention on mission planning, sorties and debriefs, let me share with you a few areas of interest relating to your new surroundings. There are many unique opportunities for you to enjoy and hazards that will demand your respect--whether it's your first time in Alaska, or you're a RED FLAG-Alaska veteran.

Springtime in Alaska is known for changing weather conditions, a day that starts sunny and clear can quickly turn to snow and harsh winds. Aircrew must dress for forecasted conditions and check the weather again before step. Do the same before embarking on a road trip. Getting stranded can turn into a survival situation in a matter of hours.

With longer days you'll have plenty of opportunities to see the sights and wildlife, both on-base and in the surrounding area. If you are not used to prolonged daylight, be careful not to push yourself to exhaustion. It's easy to forget the rest we need to accomplish critical tasks and missions when we don't have the predictable rhythm of daylight we're accustomed to.

During your free time I encourage you to explore. Alaska has a renowned reputation for its natural beauty. The local community is supportive of our mission and our calling; please return that respect when you are visiting off-base establishments and scenic areas throughout the state.

While RED FLAG-Alaska is underway I challenge you to observe our core safety principles. Employ operational risk management on and off duty. Find a wingman and practice being a good wingman. Mitigate risks by following posted instructions and regulations. We're proud to be your host and we ask that you treat all government property and equipment with due respect, so we can provide another world-class exercise for the next round of RED FLAG-Alaska participants.

The bottom line: You've come to Alaska for world-class training specifically designed to prepare you for combat. The Iceman Team will provide you that opportunity to the best of our ability. We wish you a safe and effective exercise. Happy hunting and...

Check Six!