21st SW leadership visits Thule

Published Jan. 12, 2009
By 1st Lt. Lisa Meiman
821st Air Base Group Public Affairs

THULE AIR BASE, Greenland -- Two senior leaders from the 21st Space Wing at Peterson AFB, Colo., learned more about life at Thule in their recent trip than all other visits combined.

Col. Jay Raymond, 21st SW commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Tim Omdal, 21st SW command chief, visited Thule in an unusual three-day visit Jan. 6-9 to gain a more in-depth look at the wing's most remote group and to get a feel their preparedness heading into an Operational Readiness and Compliance Inspection.

"I'm definitely glad we were able to visit for a few days. I learned much more on this trip than I ever could have in a 20-hour visit," said Colonel Raymond, referring to typical visits which start Thursday morning and end less than 24 hours later Friday morning.

During the extended stay, the pair interacted with all ranks of Airman and contractors at Thule, learning about living and working conditions as well as quality of life issues facing residents here.

With average temperatures 20 degrees below zero and 24 hours of darkness, Colonel Raymond and Chief Omdal got to experience the Thule environment more than ever before as well.

Colonel Raymond and Chief Omdal held commander and enlisted calls to talk Air Force issues and take questions and suggestions from Airmen. Long-standing Thule issues that were discussed include implementing college-level testing at Thule, Internet accessibility and developing running facility options.

Colonel Raymond and Chief Omdal also emphasized the upcoming operational readiness inspection and unit compliance inspection.

"I need everyone to sprint for a few months. Dig into the Instructions, check over the self inspection checklists, closely examine your programs and strive for perfection," Col Raymond said. "Our people and our programs need to be crisp."

"This remote tour provides one of the greatest opportunities for in-depth training," Chief Omdal said. "Take advantage of that. Read your Air Force Instructions and Operations Instructions. Learn your job to the best of your ability."

Colonel Raymond and Chief Omdal visited several working environments on base, thanking Airmen and contractors alike for their service and sacrifice.

"Thank you everyone for working up here. Your mission is critical to the defense of our nation," Colonel Raymond said. "These are harsh living conditions, but your service and sacrifices are truly invaluable to the United States and its allies."

Colonel Raymond's visit