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COMACC visits Shaw, highlights Year of AF Family

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alexandria Mosness
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The commander of Air Combat Command, Gen. William M. Fraser III, recognized the contributions of 20th Fighter Wing Airmen during his visit here June 16.

One of the main purposes for General Fraser's visit to Shaw was to recognize Airmen and their families and express the gratitude he has for them.

"One of the key things I want focus on is taking care of our Airmen and their families," the general said. "If there is one thing that I have learned over my career, it's that we must take care of our people."

"Whether it's a high-end fight we might be engaged in or a counterinsurgency-type operation, it's about people," he said. "They are our ambassadors and the ones who make things happen."

With this year being the Year of the Air Force Family, the general wanted to reiterate, it is always about taking care of the biggest asset - Airmen and their families.

"Every year is the Year of the Air Force Family. It's just that this last year we have focused on it in order to provide additional resources for some programs that we felt were very important for our families," General Fraser said. "As we look to the future, a number of these programs have now been institutionalized, and will be enduring."

One of these programs unique to Shaw is the Air Force's first-ever free, supervised childcare area at the fitness center. The program allows parents the opportunity to work out without having to worry about, or coordinate alternative childcare for their children.

The fitness center's childcare area was one of the many areas highlighted during General Fraser's visit. The general and his wife, Beverly Fraser, also visited the Airman and Family Readiness Center and the 20th Maintenance Group.

"I thought the visit went very well," said Col. Charlie Moore, 20th Fighter Wing commander. "General Fraser was impressed with the 20th Fighter Wing and our warriors," he added "Not only was he impressed with our Airmen, but was also impressed with our facilities and the programs we are offering for our Airmen and their families."

The visit allowed General Fraser to see the capabilities of Shaw, and engage directly with Shaw Airmen at the all-call.

"It is always important to meet with our leadership so they can hear the concerns of our Airmen," Colonel Moore said. "General Fraser was able to hear Shaw Airmen on this visit," he added.

General Fraser expressed his gratitude to those who contribute to the Air Force's mission every day.

"I've been extremely impressed with everyone I've met here, and I would like to thank the family members who are very supportive and for the sacrifices they make so that our Airmen can get their job done," said General Fraser. "If it wasn't for our families who support us, we wouldn't be able to do the things we do."