Hotaling visits Wisconsin ANG Airmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kyle P. Russell
  • 115th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MADISON, Wis. --  Chief Master Sgt. James W. Hotaling, Air National Guard command chief, visited the 115th Fighter Wing in Madison, Wisconsin, Dec. 6.

Hotaling met with squadron commanders, Airmen of the Rising 6 and the senior enlisted members of the Top 3 to speak about various topics relating to Airmen of the ANG.

"The Guard you joined no longer exists," Hotaling said. "We are doing more with less. We are currently the smallest Air Force in history, but we are occupying more countries and territories than we previously have in any other time period."

According to Hotaling, the old Guard will never return. Instead, focus needs to be put on preparing for the future.

In an effort to prepare for the future, he went over his aim points - rules and regulations, airman comprehensive assessment, enlisted performance reports, ways to stay healthy, and reinforced use of the Wingman concept.

"I think it is very important for our ANG Command Chief to speak face to face with our Airmen about his aim points, especially the profession of arms and important role that all Airmen have in accomplishing our mission," said Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Safer, 115 FW command chief. "He explained to our Airmen the realities of the budget, ACAs, EPRs, and training shortfalls."

During his Wisconsin visit, Hotaling also spent time at the 128th Air Refueling Wing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Volk Field Air National Guard Base in Camp Douglas, Wisconsin.

"In my opinion, Chief Hotaling is the quintessential servant leader," Safer said. "He works extremely hard to ensure the enlisted ranks are motivated, educated and reach their full potential."