Icemen Welcome Red Flag Participants

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Mark Graper
  • 354th Fighter Wing 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 08-03 and we look forward to serving with you. A special welcome to our international guests from Germany, Japan, and Korea!

Our objective for you is two weeks of world-class aviation training. The Icemen have worked hard to set the conditions for your training in terms of a well-planned exercise scenario, enhancements to the Pacific Alaska Range Complex, and top-notch base operating support and services. If we are not performing to standard in any of these areas, please let your chain of command know and we'll work hard to resolve the problem quickly.

Here are a few considerations that every Iceman learns during their assignment at Eielson AFB which will serve you well while you make Alaska your home away from home.

1. Work hard--smartly. The 354th Fighter Wing 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 08-3 we'll have long days of flying, fixing and supporting. That said, 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 exercise, if something just does not look right on the ground or in the air, call knock-it-off!

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 get even longer as we approach the summer solstice. It's easy to over extend yourself and become exhausted when you don't have the natural cues for rest. Keep a handle on your rest/work cycle. 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! If you succeed at this concept you are ready for Arctic duty.

Again, welcome to Eielson AFB and RED FLAG-Alaska!