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Who are we? It’s a simple question that required a more complex answer. During an all-call with Ramstein enlisted personnel, an Airman grabbed the microphone, concerned with our Air Force identity — and asked a question.
We’re adopting a new uniform, the Airman said. We’ve had several over the course of our life as a service, and it seems like with so many uniform changes… who are we? The Airman, assigned to Ramstein Air Base, thanked Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright, and eagerly awaited an answer.
“First I don’t think who we are, should be defined by what we wear,” said Wright. “We also have to make sure that in an ever-changing, non-static and very dynamic environment we remain agile, flexible, and innovative.”
Wright continued, saying that we as Airmen are defined by the work we do, and there is no question of who we are and what we stand for as American Airmen.
“When it comes to how we execute, the nation expects of us air superiority, rapid global mobility, global strike, command and control and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance,” said Wright. “I don’t think there’s any question about who we are.”
Much of who we are as Airmen was showcased to Wright who visited Ramstein July 24 to 26 to speak to Airmen and tour newly implemented innovations on the base.
At the all-call, Wright discussed innovation, stating that it is crucial to push as much as we can down to the squadron level, noting that a total of $64 million was recently distributed throughout each wing in the Air Force.
“I love this idea of driving innovation and make innovation a part of our culture,” said Wright. “I define innovation by how can we do things better, cheaper and faster.”
After leaving Ramstein in 2017 to continue his service at the Pentagon, Wright returned to Germany after 18 months, to reconnect with the Airmen he once lead as command chief for U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa.
Wright said returning to Ramstein was very exciting.
“It’s been a great visit,” said Wright. “I’ve got to see and do some very exciting things and as always I’ve met some outstanding Airmen. It’s great to be back, feels like being back home.”
