Iraq’s first chief master sergeant of the air force toured several Air Education and Training Command bases, learning how the Air Force educates airmen of all ranks. It was his first visit to the United States. While at Maxwell AFB, Ala., on Dec. 7, this official received briefings on the First Sergeant Academy, Officer Training School, and the International Officer School. He also met with CMSAF James Roy, who was at Maxwell the same day. The two chiefs also spoke at the Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy. “The visit is of mutual benefit to both of us. It can only continue to strengthen our great relationship with Iraq and the Iraqi air force,” said Roy. After visiting Maxwell, the Iraqi CMSAF visited Lackland Air Force Base and Randolph Air Force Base, both in Texas. The Air Force did not release the Iraqi CMSAF’s name. (Maxwell release by Scott Knuteson)
As the Pentagon increasingly pivots its focus to strategic competition with China, the U.S. will look to expand its partnership with South Korea to increase security across the entire Indo-Pacific region, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III said Dec. 2 during a visit to the northeastern Asian nation.