CHIÈVRES AIR BASE, Belgium -- The Third Air Force command team, led by U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Paul Moga and Chief Master Sgt. Stephanie Cates, made significant visits to Airmen stationed at Chièvres Air Base, Belgium, and Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base, Germany from February 20 to 21, 2025. The trip showcased the dynamic capabilities and dedication of U.S. Air Force personnel working within geographically separated units (GSUs) under the command of the 86th Airlift Wing and the 52nd Fighter Wing.
During their visit to Chièvres Air Base, the command team engaged directly with personnel across various flights and shops, gaining insights on day-to-day operations and responsibilities. Notably, the 424th Air Base Squadron operates on Chièvres, alongside the 470th Air Base Squadron and the 852nd Medical Squadron at Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base. This integration emphasizes joint operational capabilities and enhances mission readiness.
At Chièvres, Maj. Gen. Moga and Chief Cates toured important facilities, including the air traffic control tower, the petroleum, oil, and lubricant (POL) facility, and the fire department, where Moga personally participated in live fire training exercises. Cates praised the commitment displayed by Airmen, stating, "These Airmen from the 86th Airlift Wing have truly embraced the concept of being Mission Ready with their small teams on isolated bases." This reflects the adaptable mindset of the U.S. Air Force personnel stationed overseas.
Moving to Geilenkirchen, the command team met with Airmen from the U.S. Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) and engaged with the NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) Component, commanded by Brig. Gen. Kristen Thompson. Moga emphasized the importance of the partnership between the 52nd Fighter Wing’s GSUs and the NATO AWACS Component, remarking, "The partnership exemplifies how Third Air Force, USAFE, and NATO remain committed to collective defense via reviving our warfighter effectiveness and reestablishing our deterrence." This statement highlights collaborative defense strategies between NATO and the U.S. Air Force.
Throughout the two-day visit, numerous Airmen were acknowledged for their exemplary performance and unwavering dedication to their mission objectives. One standout, Tech Sgt. Arlene Carbadillo, who is assigned to Air Traffic Control at the 424th Air Base Squadron, was recognized by Maj. Gen. Moga as an outstanding performer during this engagement. Celebrations such as these not only boost morale but also create a sense of community and recognition within the armed forces.
Moga’s immersion tour emphasized not only the mission readiness of these units but also the unique challenges faced by Airmen stationed on overseas bases. The command team’s approach allowed them to witness firsthand the capabilities and resilience of U.S. personnel working alongside NATO allies. This visit set the groundwork for enhancing operational effectiveness, ensuring both U.S. and NATO's continued success.
Such visits are integral to maintaining strong relations and operational collaboration, which are pivotal for both preparation and execution of military operations, especially considering current global threats. The investiture of time and resources by leadership reflects long-term commitment to the preparedness and efficiency of forces stationed abroad.
With heightened tensions globally, these engagements are not mere formalities; they are part of the strategic initiatives to bolster defense capabilities at multiple levels. The leadership’s presence at Chièvres and Geilenkirchen signifies constant support and vigilance necessary to protect shared interests and values.
Overall, the visits of Maj. Gen. Paul Moga and Chief Master Sgt. Stephanie Cates not only recognized the diligent efforts of Airmen but also forged stronger ties between U.S. Air Force units and their NATO counterparts, enhancing joint operational capabilities effectively. Moving forward, these interactions remain pivotal as global dynamics evolve and new challenges arise, necessitating unity and cohesiveness among allied forces to safeguard freedom and peace.