18th AF commander visits Dyess

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jonathan Stefanko
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Lt. Gen. Darren McDew, 18th Air Force commander, made his first visit to the 317th Airlift Group here Nov. 7, inspecting several facilities and an all- call to share his vision and priorities with the group's Airmen.

As 18th Air Force commander, McDew is responsible for ensuring airlift, aerial refueling, aeromedical evacuation and contingency response for America's armed forces through 39,000 active-duty Airmen, Reservists and civilians, and approximately 1,300 aircraft.

McDew started his visit with a tour of the 317th Maintenance Operations Squadron. Senior Airman Brian Lebby, 317th Maintenance Squadron, shared what the group is doing to increase compliance and efficiency using technologies such as the Radio Frequency Identification-enabled tool control. The RFID is used in all Dyess maintenance squadrons, saving nearly $35,000 in operating costs while improving tool tracking.

"The 317th AG has a culture of progress, while saving money," said McDew. "It's clear they do more than is expected of them every day and they do it well."

The general's visit also included tours of the group's headquarters, the isochronal inspection hangar and a C-130J aircraft.

During an all-call of group personnel at the base theater, McDew discussed his philosophy that every Airman is an innovator and that tomorrow's great ideas can come from anyone, regardless of rank or position.

"Some of the best ideas come from the young," McDew said. "We should never tell them what they are not capable of, but instead remind them what they are a part of because everyone has the potential to make contributions. That's an important part of respect."

McDew concluded the visit thanking 317th AG Airmen for their contributions and positive impacts to the group's worldwide mission.

"I've come here to tell you that what you do is special and important," McDew said. "Your unit has a reputation for getting the job done and leading the way through innovation, and I want to say thank you."