Eielson selected to receive operational F-35A aircraft
Air Force Col. Michael P. Winkler, the 354th Fighter Wing commander, participates in an interview following a March 4, 2016, ceremony at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, where he announced the news the Secretary of the Air Force made the decision to select Eielson as the location of the Air Force’s first F-35A operational base in the Pacific Air Forces’ Area of Responsibility. Air Force officials chose Eielson after a lengthy analysis of the location’s operational considerations, installation attributes, environmental factors and cost. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Karen J. Tomasik/Released)