LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- This weekend was anything but ordinary for Reserve Citizen Airmen of the 944th Fighter Wing. What would have typically been two days of in-person training for the team of over two thousand members, turned out to be a quiet weekend. It was replaced by virtual, computer-based training for some, while a small footprint of personnel participated in-person to meet readiness and mission requirements.
“This UTA is absolutely not normal,” said Col. James Greenwald, 944th Fighter Wing commander. “But the priorities for the wing remain the same. We will take care of our Airmen and their families and continue the mission.”
The modified drill weekend is a solution that meets both priorities while maintaining the social distancing required to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
A significant portion of 944th FW members rescheduled this weekend’s planned duty for later in the fiscal year, which will still allow for members and the unit to meet training and readiness requirements.
Concern over the coronavirus pandemic has necessitated adjustments to the unit’s normal battle rhythm, but the mission of forging combat Airmen remains.
Col. Greenwald, in a message to members of the 944th FW, recognizes that the wing is in this together.
“Team, I am incredibly proud of all of you for your patience, your resilience, and for your professionalism as we work through this trying time,” said Greenwald. “I am proud to serve with you and I am proud to be a member of your team.”
“Forge and Fight!”