CSAF visits Yokota, discusses changes in 2011

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina R. Menchaca
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) --  Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz visited with more than 600 Airmen during an Airman's call Feb. 8 here.

He addressed several Air Force and Defense Department issues, including force management and the repeal of the law commonly known as Don't Ask Don't Tell.

During his remarks, the general said the Air Force is authorized by Congress to have about 332,000 Airmen on active-duty status.

With retention at a 16-year high, the Air Force is currently over its mandated active-duty end strength, General Schwartz said.

"Having more people on active duty than we are supposed to have is not something we can just ignore," he said. "We have to make adjustments, particularly in the officer corps."

General Schwartz said Air Force officials will continue to encourage eligible Airmen to voluntarily leave the service through various incentive programs, but that involuntary force management efforts will also be required.

The general also spoke about upcoming changes for the Air Force as the service helps implement the repeal of Don't Ask-Don't Tell.

"We are not trying to change anyone's personal views, but when it comes to Air Force business, we will treat each other with dignity and respect," General Schwartz said.
The general said he was confident that Airmen will successfully implement the change with the same unparalleled professionalism they exhibit every day.