CSAF addresses key Air Force issues at JB Andrews

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Bahja J. Jones
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (AFNS) --  Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz provided insight into the latest developments in Air Force funding, manpower and morale during a chief of staff call here Nov. 1.

Schwartz opened the event by delivering introductory comments to the Team Andrews audience, then addressed the concerns of attendees during a question-and-answer session. The nation's economic woes -- and their effect on the defense budget -- was one of the topics the general addressed.

Schwartz said the on-going U.S. financial crisis has sparked a need for change in how the Department of Defense operates. With less money in the Air Force budget, the service will continue to review all areas -- including force structure, operations and investment, and personnel -- for further savings.

"We would rather be a smaller, capable Air Force than one that is larger and not ready," said Schwartz. "That's the strategy we're going to follow."

While the number of organizations, weapon systems and personnel in the service could be affected, senior Air Force officials are committed to ensuring that the changes will not hamper the service's ability to accomplish its mission, Schwartz said.

To maintain the Air Force's readiness during these fiscally constrained times, Schwartz said every member of the service will need to work together.

"To be a champion Air Force, we know that everybody counts, everybody contributes and everybody has to strive for all the excellence they can," said Schwartz.

Such commitment to the mission also means commitment to one another, Schwartz said, pointing out that the Air Force has seen 74 suicides by its members this calendar year alone. Schwartz challenged the audience to make it their job to look out for their fellow wingmen.

"I won't allow my teammate to make such a profound and permanent decision," Schwartz said, describing the mindset he expects of all Airmen. "If one of my teammates is in distress, I will make an effort to encourage them to seek help."

Though the Air Force is undergoing a number of changes, Schwartz assured the JB Andrews audience that the changes will result in an Air Force worthy of their service.

"If the American people lose faith in their Air Force, where do they go?" asked Schwartz, suggesting there is no alternative able to provide the Air Force's unique contributions to national security. "That's why it's important for us to serve well, to serve professionally and to take care of each other."