Various community and business leaders from the Charleston area boarded a Charleston-based C-17 Globemaster aircraft to participate in a Civic Leader tour in Texas on March 15 and 16. “The purpose of a Civic Leader tour, such as this, is to educate community partners on what goes on ‘behind the gate’ and highlight various missions our Citizen Airmen are tasked to do around the globe,” said 315th Airlift Wing Commander, Col. Gregory Gilmour, who participated in the tour. “Additionally, the goal is to inspire these individuals to become advocates of the Air Force Reserve and help to tell our story.”
After the aircraft touched down in the warm afternoon Texas sun, members arrived at the 433rd Airlift Wing headquarters, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. There, attendees received mission briefs from the Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing and the 733rd Training Squadron, which provides administrative and managerial oversight to operate the only formal C-5 Galaxy cargo aircraft schoolhouse in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. “Touring the F-16 and C-5 was amazing,” said Ian Harris, director of sales and marketing for Fort Sumter Tours. “Learning the size, speed, and what it takes keep the planes flying is an incredible job the military accomplishes day-in and day-out. I have a newfound respect for all branches of the military and will be supporting them more than ever.” For some individuals, this was their first time being engaged with the military, which allowed for a deeper understanding and appreciation for the men and women of the Air Force, Guard, and Reserve.
Amy Hutto, director of human resources for the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, shared her thoughts about attending the various tours and events. “Never having had experiences of this nature with the military prior to this trip, it was a real eye-opener for me,” said Hutto. “I now understand the important role the Guard and Reserve play and how important it is for employers to have policies in place to support their employees who serve.”
The Chamber’s Military Affairs Council was honored to host the 433rd Airlift Wing and the 315th Airlift Wing, along with their community and civic leaders as part of our USAA Military Reception series. Being a part of these valuable cross-country trips helps us to engage outside of our community and show others how San Antonio supports and engages our Military partners, Active Duty, Guard and Reserve.
