FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Maj. Gen. Corey Martin, 18th Air Force commander, visited Fairchild Air Force Base from May 2-4, 2023.
Martin’s tour of the base included highlighting the air refueling mission along with meeting Airmen from various career fields to better understand the mission and capability sets of Team Fairchild.
“My role as 18th Air Force Commander is to advocate when there’s a need for mobility support,” said Martin. “If there’s a mission that requires aerial refueling, you are the ones that answer the call. Team Fairchild provides Rapid Global Mobility at a moment’s notice, and you all continue to set the pace for what is being asked of you.”
During his visit, Martin was the honored guest and speaker at Fairchild’s Shell 77 memorial ceremony, remembering the lives lost during a KC-135 Stratotanker crash over the mountains of Manas, Kyrgyzstan, in May 2013. At the time of the accident, Martin was the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing commander, where Shell 77 was operating.
“I know the depth of professionalism, courage, and character that was on display with Shell 77,” said Martin. “It is fitting to remember to speak their names, so we don’t forget their sacrifice.”
Martin was accompanied by his wife Holly, who took time to visit Fairchild’s supporting agencies to learn how they contribute and serve the Airmen and families of Fairchild AFB.
“Supporting our service members and their families is our top priority.” said Martin. “Through conversations with the Airmen and their families, we can address what’s needed to improve Airmen’s quality of life. I always love sitting down personally and hearing from the Airmen, as well as getting a chance to talk to them myself.”
Martin concluded his tour with an all call where, among other topics, he emphasized Air Mobility Command commander, Gen. Mike Minihan’s priorities of “Warrior Heart.”
“Warrior Heart is mind, body and craft,” said Martin. “Warrior Heart is the idea that we need to continuously improve on our work, fitness, and headspace in order to stay ahead of the curve.”
As the Air Force’s largest KC-135 Stratotanker wing, Fairchild serves as a major contributor to the 18th AF’s mission and priorities.