39th MSG commander visits Izmir

  • Published
  • By Tanju Varlikli
  • 425th ABS
IZMIR, Turkey --  Col. Russell Voce, 39th Mission Support Group commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Chris Simpson, 39th MSG group superintendent, visited the 425th Air Base Squadron at Izmir Sept. 15 and 16 as part of their visit to geographically separated units in Izmir and Ankara with one simple credo: "To see Airmen, and to talk with them."

The itinerary included touring the facilities at NATO, Izmir Community Center and the U.S. sole use facilities at Cigli Air Base. Voce and Simpson were briefed by flight chiefs, staff agencies and tenant organizations at NATO, ICC and Cigli AB.

"It is always an honor and a privilege to host 39th ABW leadership here at Izmir," said Lt. Col. John Thomas, 425th ABS commander. "This week we had the pleasure of providing Col. Voce and Chief Simpson with an immersion of the role the 425th ABS plays in supporting and strengthening NATO LANDCOM and Cigli AB.  Their inspirational words and guidance served to re-affirm our dedication to this critical role, and provided a litmus test of our support for the 39th MSG, 39th Air Base Wing and USAF goals and mission.  We look forward to our next visit from the fine men and women of the 39th ABW."

The colonel kept an hour of his time for a lunch with the 425th ABS NCOs and held a commander's call at the Izmir Club to hear Airmen's and local nationals' views on mission related issues and to listen to their concerns.

The 39th MSG commander said he was impressed with the Izmir community.

"Across the spectrum (Airmen, contractors and civilians), the 425th ABS has a challenging and diverse mission. From ensuring NATO Land Command is supported to command and control NATO forces to ensuring Cigli Air Base is ready to host power projection forces, the 425th ABS fulfills a critical role," Voce said. "Chief Simpson's and my visit has given me the assurances I was looking for that we have the right people with the right focus to make sure the job gets done. The 425th ABS is truly the hammer and the anvil that ensures the sword of C2 and power projection is strong and ready for battle. They personify forward, ready, and now!" he said.

Simpson sought out Izmir Airmen's views on mission-related issues as well during an enlisted call at the ICC education center. Simpson praised the efforts of the Izmir community members and said that the men and women of the 425th ABS, to include active duty, civilian and contractors, serve a crucial role in supporting the NATO allies. "Our visit here has given us a much clearer sight picture of how extensive and how important their mission is," Simpson said. "They serve not only as great Airmen but as ambassadors to NATO, Turkey and our sister services."

"Chief Simpson's enlisted perspective on the future of the Air Force was very enlightening and well received by every Airman who attended. The information he provided will be used now and in the future to help the 425th bring home some awards," said Tech. Sgt. Mircea Rosculet, 425th ABS finance NCO in-charge of customer service. "It's always great to have the senior leadership from Incirlik to visit us and provide guidance and leadership."

Izmir military and local community members expressed their appreciation for the guidance and support they're getting from the 39th MSG leadership and look forward to future visits.