Commander welcomes Red Flag-ALASKA 09-3 participants

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Mark W. Graper
  • 354 Fighter Wing commander
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  On behalf of the men and women of the 354th Fighter Wing, I am once again honored to welcome our U.S. and allied participants to Eielson Air Force Base and Fiscal Year 2009's third and final RED FLAG-Alaska exercise! Whether you are a repeat guest or are making your first visit to the Last Frontier, I'm sure you'll find the state, its residents, and your Iceman Team hosts welcoming and hospitable. 

The world-class training provided via RF-A has a distinct and time-honored lineage, dating back to COPE THUNDER exercises both in Alaska and at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. RF-A builds on the lessons learned from previous iterations as well as those derived from current world contingencies to provide participants the most realistic, challenging, and educational air combat simulation possible anywhere in the world. 

Our exercise planners and staff will work to ensure you're continually challenged and tested throughout your stay. When you are not immersed in the training environment, I encourage you to make the most of your free time with us in Interior Alaska. The Fairbanks North Star Borough community is well known for making the military feel at home. Alaskans offer peerless hospitality to visiting guests in general and service men and women in particular and there is no shortage of uniquely Alaskan adventures to be had. 

Whether your interests are geared to all-terrain vehicle excursions or late-night hikes in the Midnight Sun, you should enjoy your off-duty time. Before you venture off the beaten path, however, please make sure you have an experienced local wingman with you; humans are not at the top of the food chain in Alaska. 

I also want to inform you of the extensive morale, welfare and recreation opportunities at Eielson. Our Force Support Squadron has events, socials and activities scheduled during your stay; pick up a copy of the Talon, our monthly Force Support Squadron publication, or the base newspaper, the Polar Press, to find out about what's going on around the base. 

RF-A exercises are made possible thanks to the planning and diligent efforts of many, and I'd like to thank in advance the men and women of the 354th Fighter Wing, and all associated planners and support staff, for building another fine exercise. Icemen: please join me in welcoming our guests and ensuring their stay is positive in all regards. 

Welcome once again. I wish you a memorable and rewarding stay in Alaska. Check Six!