Military leaders discuss past, future ops at Air Boss Conference

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Chad Thompson
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea (AFNS) --  Leaders from around the world met here June 15 through 16 to discuss one important mission - strategic airpower in Korea.

"The Air Boss Conference is an annual conference that's hosted by the (Air Component Command commander)," said Col. James McGovern, the 607th Air and Space Operations Center commander. "It's a bi-lateral (conference) between Republic of Korea and U.S. forces under the combined forces aegis here on the peninsula."

The conference brings together commanders from both on and off the peninsula, he said. Each of these commanders could send forces to support a potential crisis or conflict here.

"Having them all together to discuss current issues with regards to operational plans and the assumptions we have as we go working together are very important," Colonel McGovern said.

The annual Air Boss Conference is not only a chance for other commanders around the Pacific Command to meet, but they also get the opportunity to discuss issues directly with their boss.

"Over the next few days, we have an aggressive agenda, covering a wide range of topics relevant to airpower in the Korea theater of operations," said Lt. Gen. Jeffrey A. Remington, the Air Component Command commander. "I welcome this opportunity to both share my vision and discuss the challenges to combat employment here on the peninsula."

The general said the conference affords the opportunity for other leaders around the world to bring their expertise to the table, learn from each other and take advantage of a forum to further integrate all organizations into a seamless war-fighting machine.

"Keep in mind that in this theater, we must always remain ready to fight tonight," General Remington said. "This is your opportunity to receive guidance directly from me and provide feedback that can be implemented to strengthen our alliance."