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AETC commander sees bright future during visit to SERE facilities

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sam Fogleman
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Gen. Edward Rice, commander of the Air Education and Training Command, visited the 336th Training Group on July 1 and 2. The general's speech at an all-call for the 336th at the Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape supply warehouse concluded his 20-hour visit during which he overviewed the training areas on base under his command.

The primary focus of the general's speech was how sequestration is affecting the resources of the Air Force's educational structure.

"Even as we have shrinking resources, we are going to do what we need to do," said Rice. "If we are smart, thoughtful and innovative enough, we'll have enough money. We're doing everything we can to not be in this situation next year. We can avoid some of the very draconian actions we had to take this (fiscal) year."

The general also addressed concerns related to sexual assault in the military, in light of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response down day held across the Department of Defense.

"We have a long way to go before we can declare victory against this challenge," said Rice of the sexual assault problem in the military. "Every single Airman is our wingman. We have tough choices and judgments about needing to continue training Airmen. If we don't get this part right, everything else is harder."

The general concluded with an expression of hope for the future of the Air Force and its Airmen.

"I guarantee you these are not the most challenging times our Air Force has ever faced," said Rice. "We'll bring our tremendous capability and skill. It's all about our attitude. If you think you can't, you're probably right."

The general left with a mention of how privileged Airmen are to be involved in this line of work: "We don't have to wake up in the morning wondering if we are doing something worthwhile."