Expeditionary Center senior leader’s past, present discuss strategic direction

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  • U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  

Former commanders and command chiefs of the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center met with Brig. Gen. Stephen Snelson, USAFEC commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Dennis Fuselier, USAFEC command chief, during its biennial Senior Statesman Conference.


“Today’s dialogue was invaluable for the strategic direction of the Expeditionary Center and for the mentorship opportunity it provided to today’s leaders,” Snelson said. “The experience and perspective of former command teams provided a snapshot into how today’s Air Force transformation in some ways is not all that different from historic changes we’ve made in the past. Our conversations made me realize this time of transformation is a real opportunity for us to be bold as an Air Force and Expeditionary Center, changing how we organize, train and equip for our generation’s great power competition.”   


During the conference, senior leaders discussed critical issues surrounding the evolving landscape of Great Power Competition and the Air Force's efforts to reoptimize its operations in response to shifting global dynamics.


They also focused on how they can better equip the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center staff, Expeditionary Operations School, and the Global Air Mobility Support System to better align with the Chief of Staff five line of efforts. 


“It was an honor to welcome back former leaders who helped shape the Expeditionary Center into what it is today,” Fuselier said. “The Air Force is evolving, and we must evolve with it. Throughout our history, there have been pivotal moments when we had to adapt for the right reasons, and great power competition is one of those moments. As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure our Airmen are prepared, and with their experience and feedback, we will be better equipped to meet these challenges.”


Throughout the day, leaders engaged in in-depth discussions about the Expeditionary Operations School highlighting its accomplishments over the past year and exploring how the Air Force is focused on leveraging EOS’s capabilities to enhance training for expeditionary Airmen.


“The visit from our Senior Statemen leaders provided invaluable historical context for our school’s current role and potential opportunities,” said Col. Sarah Kaiser, EOS Commandant. “Throughout its history, the Expeditionary Operations School has consistently evolved to meet the demands of our warfighters. Today, we remain committed to this legacy through our motto, ‘Train to win.’”


The daylong event provided former commanders and command chiefs the opportunity to offer their unique perspectives based on firsthand experience in leading the Air Force during periods of strategic shifts.


Overall, the conference served as an invaluable opportunity for senior leaders to reflect on the Air Force's strategic evolution, assess its current direction in light of great power competition, and collaborate on shaping an agile, forward-thinking force capable of meeting the challenges ahead.