Welcome RED FLAG-Alaska participants!

  • Published
  • By Col. Michael Jordan
  • 354th Fighter Wing Vice Commander
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Welcome to Alaska and Eielson AFB! On behalf of the men and women of the Iceman Team, we are honored to have you with us for RED FLAG-Alaska 10-1 and we look forward to serving with you. A special welcome to our international guests from Japan, NATO, Thailand and Mongolia!

RED FLAG-Alaska builds on the lessons learned from previous exercises as well as from current world contingencies to reach our objective - to provide two weeks of world-class aviation training. The Iceman Team has worked hard to set the conditions for your training in terms of a well-planned exercise scenario, enhancements to the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, and top-notch base operating support and services.

RED FLAG-Alaska includes some of the most realistic, challenging and educational air combat training possible. Our nation is at war, and we need to take full advantage of this valuable training opportunity. For this reason, we will continue to conduct operations on Columbus Day, which will be a normal duty day for 354th Fighter Wing Airmen and mission-essential civilians.

Here are a few considerations which will serve you well while you make Alaska your home away from home.

1. Work hard -- smartly. The 354 FW is a small but strong team. I have no doubt that the same is true for your respective units. To capitalize on the training value of RED FLAG-Alaska 10-1, we'll have long days of flying, fixing and supporting. It's important to abide by your unit and RED FLAG-Alaska guidance and safety standards, as well as common sense. Amidst the push-it-up attitude of a RED FLAG-Alaska exercise, if something just does not look right on the ground or in the air, call it!

2. Enjoy Alaska -- smartly. Alaska has attractions you will not find anywhere else in the world. When you have time off, I urge you to get out and enjoy the "Great Land." Our local civilian community is very supportive of the military and is looking forward to meeting you. Alaska's greatest attractions, however -- wildlife, wilderness, weather, daylight and distance -- can all quickly become hazards if not managed properly. During your stay here, our days will be getting shorter as we approach the winter solstice. It's easy to become sedentary without the sun's natural cues for energy and alertness. To make the most of your off-duty time, please ask for help from anyone on base. They will help you enjoy the area and stay safe in our nation's largest state.

3. Look out for one another. On the ground as in the air, don't go single ship -- have a wingman!

Again, welcome to Eielson AFB and RED FLAG-Alaska, where we are always 'Ready to go at 50 below!'